Torricelli is widely regarded as one of the top ten Italian defenders of his generation and a career spent at the very top of Serie A in its prime has certainly meant that Torricelli has played against some of the best players in the world - and excelled against them - Juventus and Fiorentina both played in the Champions League and Torricelli was always regarded as one of the best defenders in both teams.
Therefore the news that he is in Pompey is encouraging. He told the PA that "English football has always fascinated me; the stadiums, the play, the way of life and now I have this opportunity with Portsmouth,'' Torricelli said. There is nothing in writing yet, but there is a firm interest because I have come here to evaluate the opportunity with my family. I will make a decision by the weekend.'' Quite if Torricelli would want to swap the delights of Florence for Portsmouth remains to be seen but if it does happen, it could eclipse the shock of Paul Merson's move earlier in the season.
Middlesbrough are also suggesting that Gianluca Festa could be on his way to Pompey.