ITALIAN defender Francesco Pisano would prove a good addition to the ranks should Wanderers secure his signature this transfer window.

That's the view of one student of the Italian game who has watched the Sardinian ply his trade in Serie A for his home-town club Cagliari for several years.

Luca Gunby, from the website www.forzaitalianfootball.com, has told The Bolton News the 29-year-old right-back has pace and strength that would suit the English game and has compared his style to that of ex-Italy, Juventus and Milan defender Gianluca Zambrotta.

Pisano may not be at that high level and it may take a little time to adapt to the rigours of Championship football, but Gunby is confident the former Italy Under-21 international has the attributes to do just that.

He told The Bolton News: "Pisano would bring some pace to the side and he is quite an intelligent player who delivers a good cross.

"I would compare him to a player like Gianluca Zambrotta as both are versatile and quick full-backs.

"He was a leader at Cagliari but it might be harder for him to assert those qualities at a new club in a different language.

"He could perhaps adapt better than some other Italian players as he is naturally a quick and physical player.

"He may not adapt to life the quickest as is he is coming from an island.

"He also previously said he likes places like Spain and South America, so England will be different to what he is used to.

"He was also very attached to the fans at Cagliari, so it could be a bit strange for him to introduce himself to new supporters again.

"But Italians tend to have a real fondness for English football and he’ll certainly be enthusiastic.

"And he has spent a lot of time working with Gianfranco Zola so he could ring his old mentor to discuss how things are going at Bolton."

Pisano was linked with Wanderers last week – with QPR and Leeds also reportedly interested.

Boss Neil Lennon is keen to add to his defensive ranks, particularly in the problem full-back positions that caused concern last season.

The addition of former Charlton man Lawrie Wilson on a two-year contract yesterday has eased those worries slightly but Lennon remains keen on adding another right-sided defender to increase competition in his squad.

And the fact the number two shirt remains vacant ahead of the new campaign could suggest the search is continuing.

Gunby certainly believes Pisano has plenty to offer, and not just in defensive positions but also as an attacking full-back.

He said: "His nickname is ‘the little bomb’ due to the great pace and strength that is within his deceptively small frame.

"He reads the game quite well and is comfortable moving up and down both flanks.

"While his pace makes him an attacking threat, he has only scored one goal in his career but is usually worth a few assists."

Whatever the next step for Pisano is, his absence back at his home-town club will be felt by the supporters who took him to their hearts since he made his first-team bow a decade ago.

Gunby admits his exit came as something of a shock to everyone with 'I Rossoblu'.

He added: "His release was a surprise as he was a fans favourite.

"After the Sardinians were relegated from Serie A he was expected to sign a new contract.

"Even when he wasn’t included in the pre-season squad most assumed he would still renew and stay with Cagliari.

"As a local boy, a one-club man and occasional captain he was a popular figure for most of his career and many saw him as an automatic pick. In his younger years he was presented as a future captain.

"There was a sense he was one of the fans and he has a tattoo of the badge on his leg.

"He was in tears as he said goodbye to the Cagliari fans one last time."