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Bologna confirm Blerim Dzemaili can join Montreal Impact this week

Blerim Dzemaili will leave Bologna to join up with the Montreal Impact this week, the Italian side's director says.

Dzemaili, 31, agreed a designated player contract with Montreal in December. By getting his release from Bologna early, the central midfielder will be able to join the Impact before the MLS primary transfer window closes on May 8.

Had Dzemaili finished out the final four games of the season in Italy, he would not have been allowed to play for Montreal until the secondary transfer window opens on July 10.

But after a 4-0 win over Udinese on Sunday, Bologna are mathematically safe from relegation and can spare Dzemaili to move to Montreal. Both clubs are run by Joey Saputo, the Impact president and Bologna chairman.

"We are in a position in the standings, which will allow us to avoid relegation," sporting director Claudio Fenucci told Gianluca Di Marzio.

"Dzemaili can leave for Canada sooner than expected. I'm going to talk to the president, but there will be no problem with a departure in a few days. "

Dzemaili, a Switzerland international, has scored eight Serie A goals -- one behind team leader Mattia Destro -- in 31 appearances this season.