Ravanelli closes in on Coventry deal

Former Italian international striker Fabrizio Ravanelli has begun talks with English First Division side Coventry and is expected to undergo a medical at Highfield Road.

The Italian striker joined the Sky Blues for training on Monday, sparking speculation he was poised to sign, but at that stage City issued a denial that they were in talks with the 34-year-old.

But Coventry chief executive Graham Hover confirmed Wednesday that negotiations over a contract have started.

"Fabrizio has been training with us this week and we have been in talks with him, but at this present moment in time nothing has been confirmed with regards to a deal," said Hover.

"The club will not break its wage structure to bring Fabrizio to Highfield Road and therefore we will have to negotiate a deal which suits both parties."

Former Juventus and Lazio forward Ravanelli had previous spells in England with Middlesbrough and Derby, who released him last season at the end of his two-year contract.