Empoli leads race to sign defender Ali Dembele

Empoli is reportedly leading the race to sign Ali Dembele, a 2004-born defender who recently played for Mantova. While Torino had previously shown interest in the player, Empoli has reportedly overtaken Mantova in negotiations and is looking to finalize a deal, likely on a dry loan basis.

Dembele, who can play as both a right-back and a central defender in a three-man line, contributed 14 appearances during his time with Mantova, helping the club achieve salvation.