Sydney steps up chase for Del Piero

Del Piero, who is a free agent after a magnificent career with Juventus, has received an offer from Sion - which snapped up midfielder Gennaro Gattuso after his AC Milan contract expired at the end of last season.

"The sensations are positive," Sion director general Marco Degennaro told Sky Sport Italia television.

"We spoke to Del Piero's entourage and explained our projects. We proposed a contract to Del Piero. How long was the deal for? We didn't get into these details but, after Gattuso, we want to sign another champion."

However Sydney's genuine interest in the man who helped Italy win the 2006 FIFA World Cup has dramatically changed the landscape.

"We will speak to his management via a teleconference tonight," chief executive Tony Pignata said.

"We believe he has other offers but we will give it our best shot.

"If we manage to get Del Piero it would be the biggest signing in the history of the A-League."

Del Piero, 37, is understood to be keen on a stint in Australia after winning his sixth Scudetto with the Bianconeri last season.

Dwight Yorke's stint with Sydney in 2005-2006 was big but Del Piero would be much, much bigger, insiders claim.

The sudden departure of Nicky Carle to Baniyas Sports Club in the United Arab Emirates has freed up a marquee spot at the two-time A-League champion.

Joining Sion would appear to be an ideal scenario for Del Piero, the Swiss city being just a two-hour drive from Turin.

Yet there are other factors that might sway the Italian star towards Australia.

Del Piero is known to be a strong believer in leaving a worldwide legacy to his career.

He has publicly approved of England star David Beckham's decision to leave European football and spread his legacy in Major League Soccer in the United States.

Insiders claim Del Piero would love nothing more than do the same thing in Australia.