The wait is almost over for Championship football fans as the new season gets started this Friday – Gavin Beech has a look at the main contenders.

Fiorentina director Pantaleo Corvino has confirmed their bid to sign Liverpool defender Emiliano Insua has failed.

Liverpool earlier said that a deal to sell Insua, 21, had been agreed, but Fiorentina had revealed that the player’s wage demands were in danger of scuppering the deal.

“We’re giving up on Emiliano Insua,” Corvino told Sky Sport Italia. “He asked for wages we cannot possibly provide.

“Last night I had dinner with the director of sport at Liverpool until 2am. The player will remain in England. He is owed money by the club and he asked for wages we cannot possibly provide.

“Therefore we’re giving up on Insua. He will not be coming to Fiorentina. Because of this, the squad at Sinisa Mihajlovic’s disposal will remain what it is now, unless there is a shock bargain available.”

The wait is almost over for Championship football fans as the new season gets started this Friday – Gavin Beech has a look at the main contenders.

Make sure you don’t miss any of the last news and articles from World Soccer. Subscribe to World Soccer today and take advantage of our all 50th anniversary offer, saving up to 50%!