HUGO Bargas arrived in Italy yesterday to discuss a move to Swindon, choosing to make the long flight from South America after boss Paolo Di Canio sold the prospect of playing for the Robins to the striker.

A number of clubs in Europe had expressed an interest in the French-born Argentinian, who left Dutch side De Graafschap in March after deciding not to take up the offer of a new deal at the club.

Bargas is a proven goalscorer and boasts a fine record of almost a goal every other game in the Eredivise – the top flight of football in Holland – and understandably interest in the forward was high, with NAC Breda and Swiss side Lausanne both interested.

With such credentials it would seem a strange move to turn down the chance to play in the top leagues in Europe, but once Di Canio was able to speak one-to-one with the forward the Italian convinced him to explore the opportunity to play for Swindon.

“Nothing is done yet, but just the fact he was willing to travel from very far with his dad to join us, makes me feel very positive”, Di Canio told the Advertiser.

“He is free, this can make it hard for us because anyone can take him, but I believe we have convinced him more than the others.

“He felt that in this situation where the manager really wanted him, because I called him straightaway and told him what I think about him.

“You can imagine if he received the offer only by fax or text message but once he heard my voice and what I said about the club he felt wanted, so he said just give me three or four days and he came back to me and said he wanted to meet, so I am very happy.”

One player who will not be joining Swindon is Italian striker Christian Cesaretti, whose short trial with the Robins was brought to a swift end by Di Canio.

The former FC Empoli marksman arrived on Tuesday but, after lengthy discussions, Di Canio decided not to take initial interest any further.

“I want to be able to look into the eyes of players and see what they really feel,” explained the Town boss.

“I will not sign players here who don’t show the correct attitude to me about playing for Swindon Town.”