Monday 1 September 2014 12:55, UK
Sassuolo midfielder Jasmin Kurtic claims he turned down a move to Leeds United in favour of joining Fiorentina on loan.
The 25-year-old, who signed from Palermo in 2013, is reported to have been a long-term target for Fiorentina but Leeds were also said to be keen on securing his services.
Kurtic, a Slovenia international, spent the second half of last season on loan at Serie A rivals Torino and has now moved to Florence with a view to a permanent deal.
"Leeds United really wanted me but I couldn’t say no to Fiorentina," he told Ekipa 24.
"I know it will be hard to get in the first 11 but I’m ready to work hard. I cannot hide my joy after signing with Fiorentina."
Sassuolo sporting director Nereo Bonato told Violanews.com: "Until a few hours ago we were waiting for a practical move by Fiorentina, who have always shown an interest but never made the decisive step.
"Now he has arrived. We came to an agreement, we do not have the exact figures yet but there we are."
Leeds have already added 14 new faces to their squad this summer, including eight from Italian football.