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Alberto Gilardino completes move to Empoli from Palermo

Empoli have announced the signing of Alberto Gilardino from Palermo.

Former AC Milan and Fiorentina striker Gilardino, 34, has signed a two-year contract with the Serie A club.

A statement on Empoli's official website read: "Empoli announces that it has acquired outright the player Alberto Gilardino. The attacker has signed a contract until 30 June 2018."

Gilardino had joined Palermo from Guangzhou Evergrande last year and scored 10 goals to help the club avoid relegation.

He had posted a message on his Twitter profile in recent days indicating that he was not happy to be leaving Palermo.

He wrote: "My dear Palermo fans, I've come to write these few lines because my adventure with your colours has come to an end, although this was most certainly not my decision.

"I wanted to thank you, because in spite of the initial scepticism due to matters of the past, you knew how to look beyond and come to know me, as I did with you.

"You supported and encouraged me for the whole duration of the season and I always felt your love. I've been very struck by the affection you've showed me on social media and in the words of your banners, and I'm ever so grateful for that."