Soccer:Southampton's ambitious move for Bologna ace Gaston Ramirez is in danger of collapse, with the Italian club not happy with the offer on the table.
Ramirez had claimed he was on the verge of joining Premier League new-boys the Saints, with just a few minor details to be resolved, and a fee of €15 million (£11.8m) was the reported to have been agreed.
However, Bologna president Albano Guaraldi has hit out at the winger and insists they will not be forced into selling him for a fee lower than €20 million (£15.8m).
"The situation is much more complicated than he thinks," Guaraldi told Sky Italia. "It's not just about figures, but seeing what is included and what isn't.
"The offer we received has not been considered suitable. His agent has already reached an agreement with the English club, but we haven't. Now the situation is static, we made our demands and will see what happens.
"I don't understand why Gaston said those things. I won't even get into the behaviour of his agent."
Guaraldi is adamant Bologna will stand firm despite Ramirez pushing for a move to St Mary's, unless they receive the asking price.
"We spoke to the top Italian clubs about Gaston, but I have always been clear: I'd let him go only for a suitable offer, which so far has not arrived. I maintained my consistency and refused the bid," added Guaraldi. "I am irritated because one of my players spoke as if he were already at another club, when there still isn't any agreement.
"I can understand his desire to make the move, but I do not share his timing and methods. All negotiations can collapse, which is why I consider the player's attitude to be premature.
"The club cannot be forced to follow the rules of players and agents."