Fire signs goalkeeper from Italy

The Chicago Fire has signed goalkeeper Paolo Tornaghi, a 23-year-old former Inter Milan youth player who has played for several Italian clubs.

“Paolo has come in, performed at a high level and worked to earn a roster spot with us this preseason,” said Fire head coach Frank Klopas. “Paolo has a lot of potential for growth in this league. He is a talented kid who will push Sean Johnson and Jay Nolly in each training session.”

Tornaghi began his career as a youth with famed Italian side Inter Milan in 2004. The 23-year-old ‘keeper began loan spells from the Nerazzuri in 2008, spending two stints with Serie C side Como during the 2008-09 season and more recently during the 2010-11 campaign in which he appeared in six league and two Coppa Italia matches. He spent the 2009-10 season on loan with northern Italian side, Rimini, appearing in two league matches and one Coppa Italia match.

An Italian youth international, Tornaghi appeared for the Azzuri at every level from U16-U20 and was part of the Italian side that participated in the 2005 FIFA U17 World Youth Championships in Peru. Tornaghi is the first Italian-born player to sign with the Fire in the club’s 15-year history.