Verratti grateful for Italian connection

Verratti, 19, is expected to join PSG in the coming days having played a key role in Pescara's promotion to Serie A for next season.

Although there are language issues for the teenager to address, he is confident his countrymen in the French capital, which include coach Carlo Ancelotti, will make it a smooth transition.

He told Sky Italia: "In life, you have to make choices and this kind of proposal may never come again so I could not say no to PSG.

"The fact there are Italians there makes it easier for me in terms of the language.

"Ancelotti is one of the greatest coaches in the world and I am very happy to join this squad and work with him."

Verratti admitted it was a wrench to leave Pescara and accepts moving to PSG represents a major challenge.

He added: "I still have everything to prove but at 19 or 20 (years of age) it is possible to play for a big club.

"Look at (Davide) Santon who has gone to Newcastle and done really well there.

"In the world of football, there is not only Italy."