Pinilla delighted to seal permanent Cagliari transfer

Mauricio Pinilla could not hide his delight after sealing a permanent switch to Cagliari from Palermo.

The Chilean striker scored eight goals in 14 league appearances while on loan at the Sardinian club during the second half of last season, after struggling to displace Abel Hernandez from the first-team set-up in Sicily.

"This is just what I wanted," the 28-year-old told his new club's official website. "I believe this is the best place to continue my career.

"I have to thank Cagliari for the trust shown in me and Palermo for allowing me to leave the club."

The Rosanero have also lost full-back Mattia Cassani, who joined Fiorentina permanently after helping the Viola avoid relegation to Serie B while on loan last season.

"Palermo communicates that it has sold footballers Mattia Cassani to Fiorentina and Mauricio Pinilla to Cagliari. The two players are both transferred outright," a statement on Palermo's official website read.