Genoa goalkeeper Sebastien Frey hopes to be joined by former Fiorentina striker Alberto Gilardino.

Genoa are closing in on the Italy international.

"I hope that Gilardino joins us," the Frenchman told Sky Sport Italia. "I'm sure that he would do well here and be able to demonstrate his worth as a player.

"We would take a step up in quality with Gilardino.

"When I signed for Genoa I did so because there is an important project here. Getting Alberto would be another important sign."