ITALIAN defender, Lorenzo Stovini, claims to be on the verge of signing for Wanderers.

The 29-year-old centre-back, who left relegated Lecce when his contract expired at the end of last season, flew in last night on a fact-finding mission before committing his future to the Whites on a three-year deal.

Wanderers have refused to confirm reports that they are keen on the former Roma and Reggina man, insisting they do not comment on speculation. But the player's agent, Giocondo Martorelli, says he is confident a deal will be finalised before Wanderers leave for Spain on Friday for the next phase of their pre-season programme.

They play Huelva next Tuesday and UEFA Cup winners, Seville, the following night in a mini-tournament being hosted by the newly-promoted Huelva club.

Martorelli said Stovini, who made 30 Serie A appearances for Lecce last season and has been linked with Italian clubs Siena and Genoa, is expecting to spend three days getting to know Wanderers, during which time he would have a medical.

"It's not a trial," the agent said. "There is already an agreement with the club, for three years. He will undergo medical checks.

"The guy wants to understand what type of environment there is and what type of impact he will have, and the club want to see him in action too.

"It's a reciprocal thing. I think about three days will be enough. They want to see if he's in good condition, Stovini wants to see what the environment is like.

"For this reason, I decided to not go with him. I know Bolton are hoping to take him on their Spanish tour."

Martorelli claims talks between Wanderers and Stovini are at an advanced stage, although he admits the finer details of the three-year contract have still to be ironed out.

"The negotiations have developed in the last 20 days," he added.

Wanderers are aslo being linked with the Germany-based South African international front man, Delron Buckley, who has been on trial with Everton and is being tipped to move from Borussia Dortmund on an extended loan. Charlton are also reported to be interested.

Radhi Jaidi completed the formalities of his £2 million transfer to Birmingham City yesterday and was cleared to team up with his former Wanderers team-mate, Bruno N'Gotty, at St Andrew's on a three-year contract, subject to receiving a work permit.

Steve Bruce, was delighted to seal the deal. "It is a great signing for us. He has got two seasons worth of experience of English football and performed extremely well at the highest level," said the Blues boss.