Antonio Cassano has begged Real Madrid to allow him to stay at Sampdoria and will take a pay-cut to do so.

Cassano, 25, is on loan at the Serie A side and has been a big hit for the Genoa-based club as he tries to get his career back on track after three seasons in the wilderness.

And while the clubs have an agreement to sell the Italy forward for a fee of £3.5 million in the summer, his £60,000 per week wages will be a stumbling block for the Blucherati.

"I think I have already expressed my desire for the future after scoring at the weekend," Cassano said after scoring in the 1-1 draw at home to Serie A champions and leaders Internazionale. "As I have stated several times, I would be willing to reduce my wages in order to remain at Samp for a long time.

"I'm staying put".

Cassano was one of Italian football's great white hopes, but his career stalled following a big-money move from hometown club Bari to Roma, problems with his weight and discipline continuing after he moved to Real Madrid four-and-a-half years later.

But he has found form and professionalism under boss Walter Mazzari, who is also keen for his leading scorer to stay.

"We are happy that once again Cassano has stated his wish not to leave the club," Mazzari said.

"The problem regarding his wages is still there but there's time to resolve it."

Reda Maher / Eurosport