Why Jamie Vardy chose the Italian job over making mega bucks in the Middle East

Following husband Jamie's signing for Italian top flight newcomers Cremonese, the Vardys have been hard at work trying to find the perfect new home for them and their brood as they start their European adventure.

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Jamie, 38, left Leicester City after their relegation from the Premier League last season, with a reputation as one of the Foxes' best ever players.

His availability sparked a flurry of interest from clubs around the world - including the big-money Saudi Pro League, a popular destination for ex-Prem players in the twilight of their careers.

But the decision to sign for Cremonese on a one-year deal was a “total no-brainer”, say friends of the couple.

"Jamie could have got more money going to the Middle East, but money is not the most important thing," said one pal.

"He's playing in a great, competitive league with an exciting newly promoted team and living in Italy. What's not to like?"

The family are looking at lavish homes in Milan, Bergamo and the stunning Lake Garda - all just an hour away from the picturesque city of Cremona.

Whichever they choose, it will offer the sort of calm which has escaped them since 2019's Wagatha Christie affair, when Rebekah was named by Coleen Rooney as having leaked personal stories to the press.

The affair certainly boosted Rebekah's public profile and she appeared on Dancing on Ice in 2021 - following a stint in the I'm a Celebrity jungle four years earlier.

But it wasn't free publicity - Rebekah sued Coleen for libel and lost, leaving her with a £1.27million court costs bill.