Three-Year Contract with Option Signed; Transfer from Empoli Valued at €4.5 Million
His signing has been a long time coming. Perhaps, deep down, Torino was already written in Faustino “Tino” Anjorin`s destiny for over six months. Yesterday, as he prepared to sign his new contract with Torino, Tino likely reflected on the time Juventus courted him. Even then, he had already made up his mind: “Torino would be my ideal choice,” he told himself. Yesterday, just like back then, he was accompanied by his father Sheriff, who is actively involved in football in England. Sheriff`s passion for the sport is so great that he named one son Faustino, in homage to Faustino Asprilla, and another Zico. Today, Anjorin is officially a Granata player. He represents a significant, quality reinforcement, bringing a sense of future to the midfield of Baroni`s new Torino. The club`s pursuit of him began back in January.
Mini-Derby for His Signature
Let`s take a step back. It`s worth explaining how a small Turin derby unfolded behind the scenes for this midfielder, who made his Premier League debut at 17 with Chelsea and won a Champions League title the following year (with one appearance), consistently living up to his promise at Empoli. It was during the winter transfer market in January. Juve was preparing to sell Fagioli and considered replacing him with Anjorin. In those days, Torino entered the picture. Sporting Director Davide Vagnati had been following him closely for two years, sending scouts and personally observing him multiple times. Vagnati was captivated and made his move. In January, Anjorin was a guest of the club, visiting the facilities. Torino`s project convinced him.
The Deal is Done
Torino and Anjorin were meant to be together, and as of yesterday, they will share a significant part of the journey. Tino arrived in Turin on Thursday, underwent medical tests yesterday, visited the Olimpico stadium and Valentino Park, then signed a three-year contract with an option for a fourth season. “Welcome Tino,” the club announced at 9:30 PM. “Torino is pleased to announce the acquisition of the sporting rights of footballer Faustino Anjorin from Empoli, who has signed a contract until June 30, 2028, with an option for the subsequent season.” The operation with Empoli is structured as a loan of 500 thousand euros with an obligation to buy for 4 million upon the fulfillment of very easily achievable sporting conditions. In effect, it`s a permanent transfer. “I am happy to be here,” Anjorin said in the evening. Discussions with Empoli also included reasoning regarding Pellegri, who is close to extending his contract with Torino by one year and will likely remain in Serie B with Empoli on loan.
From Madagascar to Turin
Yesterday, Tino was joined by his whole family: his girlfriend, father, mother, brother Zico, and agent Luca Puccinelli. The family was on vacation in Madagascar and returned early to be with Faustino at this important career moment. At Empoli, he wore the number 8 shirt, which is already taken at Torino (by Ilic): he will choose his number in the coming days. In the meantime, he will continue studying Italian, as he started doing in Tuscany. Beyond being a “hammer,” a “box-to-box” player, Anjorin is also described as a perfectionist. Knowing Italian will help him quickly understand Baroni`s football tactics. Anjorin has arrived, and he`s already travelling at full speed.
