Fiore accepts Viola overtures

'Great opportunity'
The Italian international returns to Serie A after a disappointing year in Spain and is seeking a return to form ahead of the 2006 FIFA World Cup. "I'm fully motivated after the bad season I had at Valencia," the 30-year-old said. "Just speaking to [Fiorentina coach] Cesare Prandelli on the phone was enough to convince me to make the move. It's a great opportunity for me."

Following Frey
Fiore, who made his Italy debut in February 2000 and was an integral part of the Azzurri squad at UEFA EURO 2000™ and UEFA EURO 2004™, has previous Serie A experience at Udinese Calcio and S.S. Lazio. He becomes Prandelli's second major loan signing of the summer following the capture of goalkeeper Sébastien Frey from Parma FC.