Micoud set for switch

Micoud's future sorted before championships

Italian giants Parma are set to complete the signing of French midfielder Johan Micoud from French club Bordeaux.

Currently training with France's national team for the Euro 2000 championships, Micoud said he had agreed a four-year deal with Parma which could cost the Italian's nearly £5m.

I can go into Euro 2000 without my head being cluttered

John Micoud

Micoud, starting to establish himself as a regular member of the French national side, announced at the end of the French league season that he was leaving Bordeaux, but did not initially specify his desired destination.

"I finished my season with Bordeaux and kept my promise that they would earn a place in Europe," Micoud said.

"Now I've already got a deal with Parma and can go into Euro 2000 without my head being cluttered with thoughts about my future."

Bordeaux finished fourth in the French championship and will play in the UEFA Cup next season.

Parma will play Inter Milan in Italy's Champions League play-off match in Verona. The winner will join AC Milan in the preliminary round of next season's competition.