De Maio joins Fiorentina on loan

Fiorentina have announced the loan signing of central defender Sebastian De Maio just one month after his move to Belgian outfit Anderlecht.

The experienced Frenchman joined Anderlecht from Genoa in July, but has seen his brief stay come to an end after a deal was struck with the Viola.

"Fiorentina communicate the signing, on a temporary basis with a right to buy, of the footballer Sebastian De Maio from RSC Anderlecht," read a statement on the club's site.

"De Maio, who was born in Saint-Denis on March 5, 1987, also played for Brescia, Frosinone and Genoa, collecting 94 games and four goals in Serie A."

The 29-year-old is relishing representing Fiorentina, who are celebrating their 90-year anniversary.

"The 90-year anniversary is a highly significant event for Florence, but also for me, because my opportunity with Fiorentina is very important," De Maio told reporters.

"The Italian championship is among the most difficult in Europe, but Fiorentina are still a great team. I always admired them in the past, and now I'm proud to be one of their players."

Meanwhile, the reason for the player's sudden departure has been explained by the Anderlecht's director of sport, Herman van Holsbeeck.

"He will sign with Fiorentina today," he said. "His wife and child didn't want to move to Brussels."