Torino coach Sinisa Mihajlovic admits that it would be difficult to replace Chelsea target Andrea Belotti if he decides to leave the club in the summer.
The 23-year-old striker scored his 26th Serie A goal of the season in Torino’s 5-3 win over Sassuolo on Saturday and took his tally for the campaign to 28 goals in all competitions.
However, there are fears in the Torino camp that it could have been his last appearance for the club as the striker has been widely linked with a move away.
Despite a €100m release clause in his contract, the striker has attracted the attention of clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea, and Torino are still unsure whether he will be at the club next season.
Torino coach Mihajlovic is hopeful that Belotti remains at the club but admits it is up to the striker to make the decision on his future.
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He added that finding a replacement for the 23-year-old Italy international would be a tough task if he eventually decides to leave.
Mihajlovic told Sky Italia: “He’s a smart guy and he has a contract.
“We hope he stays with us, but he will choose what is best for his career.
“If he leaves, it would be difficult to find another one like him.”
Torino president Urbano Cairo is expected to stress the importance of next year’s World Cup to convince Belotti to continue at the club next season, as moving to either Chelsea or Manchester United would be likely not to see playing time guaranteed as would be the case in Turin.
