[D-Kin]

Bayern Munich’s new £7.5m signing Luca Toni says he made the choice to leave Italy 'out of respect for Fiorentina.'

This evening both the German and Italian club released statements confirming the transfer for £7.5m and a contract until June 30, 2011 was almost complete.

“We have reached a basic agreement. There are only a few details to be decided before the transfer can be completed,” said the Viola’s official website.

He had been heavily linked with Inter and Juventus over the past year, but opted to stay on for another season to help Fiorentina out of their 15-point Calciopoli penalty before moving to the Bundesliga.

“My transfer to another Italian club would have been more damaging for the Della Valle family,” said the World Cup winner.

“I spent two wonderful years in Florence and am very grateful to the fans. I hope this gesture can help the club.”

In two seasons at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, Toni has scored 47 goals in 67 appearances, including the 2006 Golden Boot with a record 31 Serie A goals.

channel4.com - Football Italia