Viola join race for Gilardino

Fiorentina are the latest side to have shown interest in Guangzhou Evergrande striker Alberto Gilardino, according to Tuttosport.

Viola were unfortunate to have Giuseppe Rossi, Khouma Babacar and Filippo Bernardeschi all suffer injuries in quick succession, meaning they desperately need a new centre forward.

Tuttosport has suggested that Fiorentina are ready to make a move on former player Alberto Gilardino, who should be available on a cut-price deal in January.

The only problem is that a host of other Serie A clubs are keen on the striker’s signature, with Roma, Inter and Torino in the mix as well.

Alberto Gilardino is almost certain to leave Guangzhou this winter and a return to Italian Serie A is a realistic possibility.

The 32-year-old will probably be interested in a return to Artemio Franchi, a place where he has spent three and a half very successful years, scoring 48 goals in 118 league outings.