Ilicic in Atalanta quit threat

Josip Ilicic has threatened to leave Atalanta if he does not receive ‘guarantees and concrete confirmation’ that they are building a ‘winning’ team.

Atalanta President Antonio Percassi has maintained on several occasions that Ilicic will stay at the club, but the former Palermo attacker admits he may be forced to move elsewhere.

“I want to play at higher and higher levels,” he told Ekipa.

Josip Ilicic has threatened to leave Atalanta if he does not receive ‘guarantees and concrete confirmation’ that they are building a ‘winning’ team.

Atalanta President Antonio Percassi has maintained on several occasions that Ilicic will stay at the club, but the former Palermo attacker admits he may be forced to move elsewhere.

“I want to play at higher and higher levels,” he told Ekipa.

“If I stay, it’s because Atalanta will get much stronger. If the Dea can build a winning team then I’ll be happy to stay, otherwise new challenges will await me.

“I understand the President wants to keep me, but I need guarantees and concrete confirmation that we’re going in a certain direction.”

The 31-year-old was then asked about a report that claimed he had agreed personal terms with Napoli.

“I didn't sign anything,” he assured.

“In the next few days my agent will have a meeting with Atalanta, and only then will we know their plans.

“After that, I’ll know what’s best for me. I clarify, however, that, right now I want to stay in Italy and if I leave Bergamo, it’ll be only for a bigger club.”