Brekalo: ‘Fiorentina is always my first choice’

Josip Brekalo has arrived to complete his transfer from VfL Wolfsburg and confirms ‘Fiorentina has always been my first choice and this is a step forward in my career.

The Croatia international had already moved to Serie A last season on loan at Turin, but the clubs could not agree on terms to make the move permanent.

With his contract due to expire in June, it was reported that Viola got him virtually for free, but offering Wolfsburg a significant reduction in all future transfer fees.

« I think Florence is the most beautiful city in Italy and coming here represents a step forward in my career, » Brekalo told Sky Sport Italia, Sportitalia and others after landing in a private jet ahead of the medical. tomorrow morning.

« Fiorentina has always been my first choice between the different options I had in Italy and Spain. I want to do better than in previous years and keep improving.

Brekalo had also been linked with Monza, Napoli, Udinese and Getafe.

He warns he won’t be ready to immediately make a difference for the Viola as the 24-year-old has made just seven appearances this season for Wolfsburg, still contributing two assists in just 314 minutes of football.

« When you’re not playing a lot you can never be 100 per cent, but after a few weeks with the team I’m sure I’ll be ready to play.

« I’ll meet Vincenzo Italiano tomorrow and talk to him, we’ll see if I’ll be there against Lazio. »

Brekalo also reveals that he chose the number 77 jersey for a very special reason.

« I’ve always worn a 7, but I want to do twice as well here. »

The Croatian reunites with his former Turin teammate Rolando Mandragora, who is also at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

« Mandragora told me about the team, but I already knew a lot about them. »