Livorno and Udinese are battling over the transfer rights of midfielder Antonio Candreva.

Both clubs insist they have rights over the Italian international's future.

"Today Juventus, Inter and Napoli are the only clubs who could win Candreva over," stated Livorno President Aldo Spinelli.

"The lad is exceptional both on the field and off it. He is in a co-ownership agreement with Udinese, so whoever wants him must also speak to their patron Giampaolo Pozzo."

However, the Friulani shot back by pointing out the decision is solely in their hands and has nothing to do with Livorno.

"Candreva is ours," said Udinese director general Sergio Gasparin. "The player is on loan to Livorno with the option to buy out half his contract, but we also have the counter-option to buy it back.

"It is basically a legal loophole to say he is on loan and so there is absolutely no co-ownership with Livorno. Spinelli is wrong."