The Toronto FC star is in an uncertain situation, tempted to leave for Europe

• Toronto FC draws 1-1 against Fredrikstad FK in their first preseason match.

• Lorenzo Insigne plays a key role in the second half of the game.

• Besiktas is interested in signing Insigne, but the Italian winger is in no rush to leave.

The Toronto FC star is in an uncertain situation, tempted to leave for Europe
The Toronto FC star is in an uncertain situation, tempted to leave for Europe | Anadolu/GettyImages

On January 31, Toronto FC kicked off their 2025 preseason with an unusual match format against Norwegian side Fredrikstad FK.

The game consisted of four 30-minute periods, allowing head coach Robin Fraser to rotate his squad and test different lineups. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Theo Corbeanu scoring for Toronto before Fredrikstad equalized late in the game.

A unique preseason opener for Toronto FC

Lorenzo Insigne was part of the second lineup that played the final two periods. The Italian winger delivered a solid performance, displaying his attacking quality and providing a strong presence in the final third.

His involvement in the preseason has been positive, but it has also sparked interest from clubs looking to secure his signature before the transfer window closes.

READ MORE: Toronto FC 1-1 Fredrikstad FK: A different format in Robin Fraser's debut

And this leaves great unknowns as to what will become of Toronto FC's future without this player, hoping that if a departure is made effective, they can find a replacement with great potential to bring competitiveness to Robin Fraser's squad.

Besiktas wants Lorenzo Insigne, but the winger remains focused

One of the clubs closely monitoring Insigne’s situation is Besiktas. The Turkish giants are eager to bring the 33-year-old to Istanbul, potentially reuniting him with his former Italy teammate Ciro Immobile, who recently joined the club.

Reports indicate that Besiktas is seriously considering making an offer, but Insigne is not entirely convinced by the move.

Sources suggest that while Insigne is open to new opportunities, he would prefer a return to Italy over a switch to the Turkish Süper Lig.

For now, he remains focused on Toronto FC’s preseason and is motivated to perform under Robin Fraser in 2025. However, with interest growing and the transfer window still open, Insigne’s future remains uncertain. Whether he stays to lead Toronto FC’s new project or considers a late move abroad, the final decision will be crucial for both the player and the club.