Bologna coach Franco Colomba has welcomed the signing of Ghana midfielder Stephen Appiah.

The 28-year-old Ghana international has been without a club since last season when he was released from Fenerbahçe.

"It's an idea that started a long time ago. It was initially considered because of the injury to Mutarelli," Colomba told Il Corriere dello Sport.

"Appiah is a central midfielder with similar characteristics."