Stadio Renato Dall'Ara: Home of Bologna(credit:
Wikipedia)
Fiorentina have announced star striker Alberto Gilardino will be staying with the club ahead of today’s trip to Bologna.
The 28-year-old has been linked with a move to Serie A rivals Juventus during the current transfer window, but the Viola have no intention of parting with the Italy international.
A club statement read: “Seeing the continuous references in the press regarding prospective deals on the transfer market in relation to Alberto Gilardino, Fiorentina would like to communicate the absolute 'unsellability' of the player.
“The club intends to reassert itself again with the objective of growing and investing to improve the actual squad.”
The news will be a welcome boost for coach Sinisa Mihajlovic as he looks to turn around the club’s recent fortunes.
The Viola head into this game having won just one of their last four outings, and midfielder Juan Vargas said: “We know we have not done well so far but now we hope that 2011 will begin on the right foot, starting with the game at Bologna. “
Fiorentina were beaten 2-1 by Parma in their last outing before Christmas, while the same team drew 0-0 with Bologna in their most recent game.
Watch Bologna v Fiorentina live at bet365, kicking off at 14.00 GMT.