The Brazil-born frontman, who has consistently been ignored by Selecao boss Dunga, could be the answer to Azzurri coach Roberto Donadoni's prayers as he seeks an understudy for star striker Luca Toni.

Having lived in Italy for seven years, Amauri is eligible for citizenship and the 27-year-old confirmed the wheels are already in motion.

"The bureaucratic process for my passport is moving forwards," he told Italian sports daily Corriere dello Sport.

"And I am counting on the fact that everything will quickly resolve itself.

"I hope to go to Euro 2008, why not? But we will see later."

Amauri suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury in December 2006 which ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

But he returned to football with a bang - notching a 15-minute hat-trick and an assist in Palermo's 4-2 win over Real Zaragoza in a pre-season friendly.

And, having overcome his own injury difficulties, he had a few words of sympathy to offer Brazil forward Ronaldo, who could be out of action for a year after rupturing a tendon in his knee last week.

"I am very upset by his injury," added Amauri. "Also because Ronie has always been among my favourite players - I grew up watching him.

"It would have been a pleasure to play against him, but I am convinced there will be another occasion.

"It's a pity."