Mario Santana has agreed a deal to join Napoli after turning down a new contract offer at Fiorentina.
Fiorentina midfielder to join Serie A rivals on three-year deal
Fiorentina midfielder Mario Santana has agreed a deal to join Napoli after turning down the offer of a contract extension in Florence, according to his agent.
The former Argentina international joined Fiorentina from Palermo in 2009 and scored four goals in 28 league appearances for the Viola last season.
But he has now decided to embark on a new challenge with Serie A rivals Napoli and will join as a free agent.
The 29-year-old's representative, Marco Piccioli, says the opportunity to play alongside several of his countrymen helped to influence the decision.
Santana had been linked with a move to Fulham back in April but opted to remain in Italy.
Enthusiastic
"We have reached a three-year agreement with Napoli," Piccioli told
Corriere dello Sport.
"Before Napoli confirm the deal, they will have to find a placement for (Argentine midfielder Jose Ernesto) Sosa.
"Santana is enthusiastic about playing at Napoli as many of his compatriots play there.
"The fact that Napoli will play in the Champions League next season is just the icing on the cake.
"His priority was to remain in Italy and Napoli's interest in him was an added motivation for him not to leave the country."
