Free agent Vieri signs for Fiorentina

MILAN, July 20 (Reuters) Former Italy striker Christian Vieri has signed for Fiorentina on a one-year deal, the Serie A side said today.

Vieri, 34, had been looking for a club since his release by Atalanta at the end of the season and will now try to fill the boots of Luca Toni, who has left for Bayern Munich.

''Fiorentina announce the signing of attacker Christian Vieri on a one-year deal,'' a statement read on the club's Web site (www.acffiorentina.it) The much-travelled Vieri was let go by Atalanta after making just seven appearances in an injury-hit year, and media reports have said many Fiorentina fans are unhappy with coach Cesare Prandelli for signing him.

Vieri, who bagged 49 caps for Italy scoring 23 goals, had the most success at Inter Milan between 1999 and 2005 but also played for Juventus, Lazio, Milan, Atletico Madrid and Monaco.

Fiorentina qualified for this year's UEFA Cup through Serie A last season despite being deducted 15 points for their role in Italy's match-fixing scandal.

The club also brought in Chievo midfielder Franco Semioli yesterday.

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