Fiorentina target former Everton defender Yerry Mina | OneFootball

Serie A club Fiorentina have set their sights on Colombian defender Yerry Mina to bolster their defensive unit, according to Alfredo Pedulla.

Negotiations are progressing to bring the 28-year-old centre-back to the Italian club in the next few days.

Following the departure of Igor Julio to Brighton & Hove Albion, Fiorentina have been searching for a reliable and experienced defender.

Mina’s availability on a free transfer makes him an attractive option for the Viola, and the club is eager to secure his services ahead of the upcoming season.

Mina has played for Everton for the past five years, accruing over 100 appearances. He also played for Barcelona during the 2017/18 season, making only six appearances.

His stature, strength and aerial prowess make him a formidable force in the heart of the defence, and he has proven himself to be a dangerous presence on set pieces, often posing a threat in the opposition box.

The player’s representatives are already discussing with Fiorentina to finalise the contract terms, including salary and bonuses.

Both parties are optimistic about reaching a definitive agreement soon, given Mina’s interest in joining the Florence-based club.

Fiorentina’s pursuit of Mina comes as they prepare to compete in the Europa Conference League again after reaching the final last season.

They gained a spot in the competition after UEFA banned Juventus.

They are keen on making an impression in the tournament and the league after a disappointing eighth-place finish in Serie A last season.

Mina will likely partner the highly-rated Nikola Milenkovic in the centre of Vincenzo Italiano’s defence if the deal goes through.

Fiorentina have only signed two players in the transfer market and Mina could be their third. They have secured Fabiano Parisi to provide competition for Cristian Biraghi at left-back.

They also signed Arthur Melo from Juventus on loan as the Brazilian looks to revive his career after stagnating over the past two seasons.

La Viola could also return to the market for a replacement for Sofyan Amrabat, with the midfielder attracting interest from Manchester United and the Saudi Pro League.