Fiorentina director Joe Barone denies interest in Toronto FC forward Lorenzo Insigne, but will ‘see if there is movement’ for Verona winger and Aston Villa target Cyril Ngonge.
The Viola visit Sassuolo this evening at 19.45 GMT.
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the LIVEBLOG.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia before kick-off, director Barone was asked about the transfer rumours surrounding his club, including the suggestions that Italy international Insigne could make a return to Serie A.
“Absolutely not, Insigne plays for Toronto, this is not reality. We must also remember that we have a squad doing very well. We have some requirements and are ready to intervene, but we will see,” replied Barone.
He was also asked about the reports that Josip Brekalo could leave in the January transfer window, with the plan to replace him with Verona wide man Ngonge.
“Brekalo is starting tonight, so he is part of the Fiorentina team. Ngonge played well today for Verona against Inter, so we’ll see over the next few days if there is some movement on that front.
“I repeat, our larder is pretty full already. We will see.”
There were reports over the last week that Aston Villa had agreed a basic €10m fee with Hellas Verona for Ngonge, but that the striker was holding out because he preferred Fiorentina.
The Tuscans are currently fourth in Serie A and hope to qualify for the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Barone also confirmed he has visited Modena to act as a surrogate stadium if Fiorentina are forced to abandon the Stadio Franchi during reconstruction works.
#Fiorentina a Modena? Barone: "Abbiamo incontrato la società" https://t.co/ttCTbfpAUC
— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) January 6, 2024