Fiorentina

Fiorentina Keen On Udinese Star Cristian Zapata

The Viola are looking to strengthen at the back but they will need all of Corvino's muscle and cash to get to Zapata...

Jan 2, 2009 11:36:07 AM

Cristian Zapata, Udinese (Foto Grazia Neri)

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Cristian Zapata, Udinese (Foto Grazia Neri)

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Fiorentina are looking at Udinese star Cristian Zapata as they attempt to strengthen their defence for the second half of the season.

The Viola are currently at their annual retreat in Marbella, but sporting director Pantaleo Corvino is moving and shaking for a top-class defender.

Florence-based paper La Nazione claim the Viola are keen on the Bianconeri stopper. Zapata has been outstanding this season and his consistent performances have raised a number of eyebrows around Europe.

However, Corvino's raid could be over before it has even begun because Udinese have announced that none of their first team players are for sale at any price.

Therefore Fiorentina have a major task in front of them if they are to reach the Colombian stopper. The alternatives to Zapata include Benfica's Brazilian star Luisao and Porto's Bruno Alves.

However, Corvino will have to make room in the squad to accomodate those players. Giampaolo Pazzini and Manuel Da Costa will have to be sold before anyone else comes in at the Artemio Franchi.

Cesare Prandelli has asked for reinforcements as he wants a strong squad in order to challenge for the Champions League places this term.

La Nazione are known to lean towards Fiorentina, but they failed to notice Udinese's stance on their players as they are not for sale.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com