Conte and Bari part ways

Newly-promoted Bari and head coach Antonio Conte will part ways at the end of the month just weeks after agreeing an extended deal.

Conte, who guided Bari to the Serie B title last term, had been linked with the vacant Juventus hot-seat prior to Ciro Ferrara's appointment.

The 39-year-old had enjoyed a successful 18-month stay at Bari after joining in December 2007 so it comes as a major surprise he will now part ways with the Galletti.

"Bari and Antonio Conte have jointly decided not to continue their agreement, meaning his contract will now expire on June 30, 2009," read a statement on the club's official website.

The details over Conte's sudden split have not been revealed although it is thought differences over the club's transfer budget for the forthcoming season were to blame.

Source: Reuters