[D-Kin]

Fiorentina are increasingly likely to capture Freddie Ljungberg after his agent assured he would leave the Premier League.

“He has earlier said that due to his respect for the Arsenal fans he can’t play for another English club,” explained Claes Elefalk.

However, talks with the Viola are continuing after the Gunners rejected an initial £5.5m bid.

“Arsenal are demanding more than the offer Fiorentina have tabled,” the agent told Swedish news agency TT.

“The clubs have to reach an agreement first, then we will sit down and discuss an eventual offer. We haven’t reached that stage yet.”

So far Ljungberg has been linked with several other English sides, including Sven Goran Eriksson’s Manchester City, but this statement closed the door on that option.

Fiorentina began their pre-season training today and Coach Cesare Prandelli hinted that Ljungberg was a priority.

“There are a few elements missing, but the club is working well and I am convinced in a few days our transfer activity will be closed,” said the tactician.

“The prerogative is to change the system so that Giampaolo Pazzini is not isolated. Last year’s tactics were based on Luca Toni’s characteristics, but he is at Bayern Munich now and we must work out what is best for the current squad.”

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