Free agent Antonio Candreva is reportedly on the verge of signing for Genoa and returning to Serie A three months after leaving Salernitana.
La Repubblica reported that the Rossoblu are set to sign Candreva to strengthen a squad plagued by injuries, with Ruslan Malinovsky’s recent ankle rupture depriving coach Alberto Gilardino of an important offensive option.
Genoa on the verge of signing Candreva
According to La Repubblica, Genoa are set to sign Antonio Candreva on a free transfer in the hope of helping Alberto Gilardino’s side bounce back after a troubled start to the season, marked by just one Serie A win in six games and a painful Coppa Italia exit at the hands of city rivals Sampdoria.
Candreva is still on the lookout for a team after leaving Salernitana at the end of his contract last June. He played two seasons for the Granata, scoring six Serie A goals and delivering six assists last season, which were not enough to prevent his side from being relegated to Serie B.
The former Inter midfielder would be expected to immediately become a relevant option for coach Gilardino, who lost Malinovsky until the end of the season due to a horrific injury, which added to Junior Messias’ physical troubles.
Before joining Salernitana, Candreva had spent two seasons at Genoa’s city rivals Sampdoria, who eliminated the Rossoblu in the Coppa Italia second round after emerging winners on penalties at the end of a game that was marked by violent clashes between the two fanbases.
Candreva was a talented player in Seria and for Italy. He can still perform.
Easily the most underrated Italian player of his generation. He deserves a last dance.