"It's a great opportunity for a player of 30 years to receive an offer from such an important club as Sevilla," said de Sanctis who has played for Italian side Udinese since 1999.

De Sanctis was able to benefit from a clause in football's world governing body FIFA's rules which allows players who have played for more than three years with a club, or are aged over 28 years, to get out of their contract.

"It's not clear what compensation has to be paid. Sevilla have covered the risk," said his agent Federico Pastorello.

Former Juventus player De Sanctis is aware of the problems he will have to fight for a place against number one goalkeeper Andres Palop.

"I know that Palop is doing very well. It's not a problem. To be competitive it's normal that there are two fighting for the post. I don't want to cause problems. I'll be at the disposal of the coach."