Turin Transfer Market: A Firm “No” Is Issued; Abate Takes Note

Ignazio Abate reports: Cristiano Biraghi has chosen to remain with Torino. In recent days, the fullback had caught the attention of Panathinaikos, which, through an agent, had sounded out his willingness to move to Greece. The former Fiorentina player, however, decided to reject the offer and continue his career with Torino.
The Athens-based club was looking to strengthen its left flank and had identified the 1992-born player as a reliable and experienced option. From a financial standpoint as well, the deal would have been feasible, considering that Torino would have received a modest transfer fee.
However, it was Biraghi’s own decision that put a stop to the negotiations. For personal reasons, the fullback was not particularly interested in the prospect of returning to play abroad, following his stint with Granada over ten years ago.
Panathinaikos had tried to convince him by offering a two-year contract. This offer would have guaranteed Biraghi a longer contract than his current deal with Torino, which expires on June 30. The player, however, thanked them and declined the proposal.
Biraghi will therefore remain with Torino with the goal of earning a spot in Abate’s starting lineup. The defender is convinced he can still make a contribution, both on the field and in the locker room.
