Bayern Munich and French legend Franck Ribery could become teammates with Nigerian duo Simy Nwankwo and Joel Obi at newly-promoted Serie A club Salernitana.

The club’s director of sport Angelo Fabiani confirms they have ‘agreed terms and are only waiting for the ratification’ to sign Ribery as a free agent.

Ribery had been at Fiorentina for two years before his deal was not renewed, then was close to Hellas Verona and even Torino.

However, he seems all set for an entirely new experience at newly-promoted Salernitana.

“Ribery was amongst the free agents who continue to play at a certain level and our general manager was immediately enthusiastic about the idea,” Fabiani told Telecolore.

“We wanted him for his experience, he can help us to grow and the whole city will be right behind us. The coach too will have more options at his disposal.”

Ribery opted for relegation battlers Salernitana rather than Verona or Torino, in their first top-flight campaign for 22 years.

“You can tell the measure of the man in the fact he wasn’t discussing the salary so much as asking about the city, seeing the beauty of Salerno and also watching a few of our games.

“Maybe he was convinced by seeing a club that is developing its football over the last few years.”

It is reported the salary will be worth circa €1.5m per season plus bonuses for the 38-year-old.

“My advisors tell me he has given the all-clear and I want to thank him for simply having thought of Salerno. It’s something everyone at the club should be very proud of.”

Ribery won the treble with Bayern during the 2012/2013 season.

He was also part of the French team that finished second at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

 

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