Sousa deal almost done

The appointment of Paolo Sousa as manager of Fiorentina has been one of the worst kept secrets in football over the last week or so, but it looks like the long and drawn out saga is finally drawing to a close as Firenzeviola.it report that the announcement could be made on the club's official website this weekend.

The Portuguese coach parted ways with his former club FC Basel on Wednesday, seemingly paving the way for the official announcement as the new viola coach, however the news has still not arrived as expected. Fiorentina co-owner, Andrea Della Valle will meet with Sousa early next week to iron out details of a playing budget and transfer targets in this summer's calcio mercato. After the meeting has concluded, the official unveiling of the new coach to the press should go ahead.

Sousa's contract is thought to be worth around €1 million per year and will last for the next two seasons. It is to be hoped that the i's are dotted and the t's crossed on the deal sooner rather than later in order for Fiorentina to commence their summer transfer dealings in earnest. Securing the services of Mohammed Salah for next season could well be first on the agenda.