Cagliari centre-back Simone Benedetti is being eyed by Championship duo Brighton and Birmingham City.

Benedetti, who was developed in the youth ranks at Torino and counts Inter amongst his former clubs, is generating interest ahead of the winter transfer window.




According to Italian outlet Tutto Mercato, both Brighton and Birmingham are chasing the 23-year-old's signature, meaning Benedetti has a big decision to make.

The defender was snapped up by Cagliari in 2014, but was soon sent on a loan spell to southern Italian side Bari.
 


He has struggled for first team football with Cagliari in Serie B this season, managing just 14 minutes of action in Italy's second tier.

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Now Benedetti could be playing his football in the cut and thrust of the Championship in the new year with Chris Hughton's Brighton and Gary Rowett's Birmingham on his tail.

The defender's contract with Cagliari runs until the summer of 2017.

He has represented Italy at various youth levels, from Under-16s to Under-20s.