Free agent Fabio Borini has expressed his desire to secure a return to England amid reported interest from Aston Villa and West Ham United, speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport.
The one-time Liverpool striker might not have developed into the lethal penalty-box poacher many expected him to become but, at the age of 29 and with a wealth of experience under his belt, this well-travelled forward still has a lot to offer.
And if you’re on the lookout for a player capable of adding experience and versatility to your squad without spending a penny in transfer fees, look no further.
Borini might have played as a number nine at Roma and Sunderland but, during a two-year spell at AC Milan, sacrificed his predatory instincts for the greater good, shuffling down the wing in a wider role that highlighted his commendable work ethic.
And, after his contract at the Serie A giants came to an end, Borini has his heart set on returning to the Premier League for the first time since 2017.
“I had important offers from Italy but I want to play here (in England). I love this lifestyle and the football mentality,” says Borini, who is back on Merseyside and awaiting offers.
“I tried to ask Liverpool (if I could train at Melwood). I knew it could be a problem for the Reds.”
Borini also reveals he hoped to keep himself fit at Everton, only for the Toffees to say no.
“I also asked Everton for their availability for a little for the security bubble that no-one other than staff and players can attend. It was not possible.”
In August, Tuttomercatoweb reported Aston Villa were interested in signing Borini.
West Ham were linked with him too. Hammers manager David Moyes worked with Borini at the Stadium of Light during their miserable 2016/17 campaign (Calciomercato).
West Ham’s record transfers
- Sebastien Haller
£45 million
- Felipe Anderson
£41.5 million
- Marko Arnautovic
£25 million
- Pablo Fornals
£24 million
- Issa Diop
£22 million
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