Latics boss casts net to Europe

MORE FOR YOUR MONEY . . . Genseric Kusunga is a good example of the talent available in the European market.

ATHLETIC boss Lee Johnson has cast his net across Europe as the search for new players gathers momentum.

Athletic has been linked with several English and Scottish-based players. But Johnson has revealed a wide search for possible additions.

“There’s three or four players from abroad that are heavily on our radar,” said the Boundary Park boss. “And why not? It’s a good market. Some countries are struggling financially with the economic climate.

“We might be able to pick up someone like Genseric Kusunga and get very good value.

“We picked up Matteo Lanzoni as well last year and he was another really good signing. I’m certainly not frightened to go outside the box and maybe pick up someone from abroad.”

Swiss-born former Champions League defender Kusunga was sihned last summer following spells with Basel and Servette. He went on to impress in 25 appearances for Athletic during what proved to be an injury-hit season.

Former Italian under-19 star Lanzoni arrived following his release from Serie ‘A’ giants Sampdoria, and made 15 appearances before a January switch to the Championship with Yeovil Town.