Hull hoping to solve defensive issues with Ranocchia signing
Hull City has attempted to reinforce its shaky defence in the form of Andrea Ranocchia, who arrived Tuesday on a season-long loan deal from Inter.
Ranocchia's stock has dropped dramatically over the past couple of seasons, with Jeison Murillo, Joao Miranda, and Gary Medel all alternating at the centre-back position. His performances did not instill confidence in recent months, nor did he win any sympathies from the Inter faithful.
A winter exit seemed even more likely once manager Stefano Pioli replaced Frank de Boer on the bench. Ranocchia made just three starts across all competitions following Pioli's hiring in November.
But at 28 years old, he has the experience to help a relegation candidate. Hull has allowed 47 goals this season, second-highest among Premier League clubs, and several personnel changes threatened to make things worse. The versatile Jake Livermore, who deputised in the centre of defence when injuries mounted, jumped ship to West Brom, while ex-captain Curtis Davies recently suffered a hamstring injury that could require an eight-week layoff.
Ranocchia could play in a three-man defence with Michael Dawson and Harry Maguire, who impressed in a 2-0 loss to Chelsea. Manager Marco Silva may also rotate the three if he chooses to go with four at the back.
Should he receive international clearance, the Italian could make his Premier League debut Wednesday at Manchester United.