West Ham striker Mauro Zarate is closing in on a move to Fiorentina, sources have told ESPN FC.
The clubs are in advanced talks over a return to Italy for the former Lazio and Inter Milan player.
West Ham are ready to sell Zarate to create space in their squad for the possible loan arrival of Nigeria striker Emmanuel Emenike from Fenerbahce.
Zarate has also attracted the interest of Spanish side Real Betis, but the 28-year-old favours a move to Fiorentina and is prepared to take a wage cut to push the transfer through.
Fiorentina are fourth in Serie A, and ESPN FC has been told that boss Paulo Sousa sees Zarate as a player who can help maintain their unlikely title bid.
They are ready to offer Zarate a two-and-half year deal to move to the Artemio Franchi and end his 18-month spell at Upton Park.
Fiorentina have now posted a Periscope video of Zarate arriving in Florence on Thursday.
Zarate, out of favour at West Ham under Sam Allardyce last season, worked his way into Slaven Bilic's plans this term and scored five goals in 21 appearances before losing his place as other players returned from injury.
