Davide Merola put pen to paper on a permanent move from Inter to Empoli yesterday, according to FcInter1908.it.

The academy forward will join the Tuscan side for €2.7 million, bonuses included, with Inter reserving an unofficial buy-back clause through a ‘verbal pact’ between the clubs.

Bologna and Sampdoria also agreed deals with the Nerazzurri, but Merola chose Empoli on the grounds they would give him more game time.

He decided his future shortly after returning from last month’s European Under-19 Championships, where Italy were eliminated at the group stage.

Merola made 32 appearances in all competitions for Inter’s Primavera side last season, scoring 12 goals and creating three assists.

His most eye-catching goal of the campaign came during a 4-2 win against Tottenham in the UEFA Youth League, but Armando Madonna’s side were eliminated at the group stage.

Merola’s contract was due to expire next summer, meaning Inter had no option but to sell him on a permanent deal.