Former Liverpool and Sunderland striker Fabio Borini has made a surprising move to League Two, signing with Salford City. The 34-year-old Italian forward, who was a free agent after departing Sampdoria this summer, has agreed to a short-term deal that will keep him with the Ammies until January. The club officially announced the signing on October 17, 2025.
Borini brings a wealth of experience to Salford City, having played in the Premier League, Serie A, and Süper Lig. His career began at Bologna before he joined Chelsea in 2007. He then had loan spells at Swansea City and Roma, before signing for Liverpool in 2012. After a loan spell with Sunderland, he joined the club permanently in 2015. He has also played for AC Milan, Hellas Verona, Fatih Karagümrük and Sampdoria.
Borini has also represented Italy at the international level, making his senior debut in 2012. He was part of the Italian squad that reached the Euro 2012 final, although he did not feature in any of the matches. He also helped the Under-21 side to the EUROs finals.
Salford City manager Karl Robinson will be hoping that Borini can add some firepower to his attack, especially following an injury to Jay Bird. Borini is known for his versatility, being able to play as an attacking midfielder, left winger, or forward.
Borini spoke about his move to Salford, "It's been great, I came in to train to keep myself fit in this transition between contracts and Salford, the Gaffer, Alex Bruce were kind enough to allow me to use the facilities and train here". He also added, "Experience is one thing that I can bring, but it's not just about the experience that I have on the pitch, it's outside of the pitch so leading by example in training, outside training, how to manage a game".
Borini is aware of the challenges that League Two football presents. "I've never played League Two football so I need to learn as well from my team mates the main characteristics of this league, but I will bring myself as an open book for my team mates to use me, learn from me or help me, so I'm very open to this challenge". He stated, “It's a challenge that I'm embracing and I chose to embrace because I needed the real football, something that warms my heart for football, not for anything else”.
The club has confirmed that all necessary approvals from the FA and EFL have been received, and international clearance has been granted. Borini is available for selection and will wear the number 16 shirt.
