Hull City's Recruitment Setback as Fortini Joins Torino

Hull City’s Italian recruitment drive has hit a wall on two fronts.

In Turin, Torino have officially wrapped up a deal for Niccolò Fortini, with the versatile full-back joining from Fiorentina on loan with an option to buy. The Granata announced the move on Friday, confirming an agreement that underlines how highly the 20-year-old is rated in Serie A.

The structure of the deal is significant. According to TMW, Torino will pay an initial €500,000 for the loan, with an option to make the move permanent for €9.5m. Fiorentina, aware of Fortini’s rising value, first extended his contract from 2027 to 2030 before sending him out, protecting their asset while giving him a bigger stage.

Hull were in the race. Talks had taken place, and the Premier League side were pushing to bring the Italy U21 defender to the MKM Stadium. But the decision was effectively made last week: Fortini chose Torino, a call now sealed in black and white with Friday’s official announcement.

For Hull, the setback doesn’t end there.

David Turns Down Hull Approach

Tuttosport reports that another target from Turin has also slipped away. Juventus forward Jonathan David has rejected an approach from Hull City, dealing a second blow to their plans.

The Turin-based paper claims the Canada international has opted to stay put, preferring to remain at Juventus rather than make the move to the Premier League club. No figures, no negotiations details – just a clear answer: no.

Two bids, two rejections from Serie A. Hull City’s search goes on, but Italy, for now, is a closed door.