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Astori was set for new Fiorentina contract on Monday, reveals president

Andrea Della Valle has paid tribute to the defender, calling him a 'reference point' for the team

Davide Astori was due to sign a new Fiorentina contract on Monday, club president Andrea Della Valle has revealed.

Fiorentina captain Astori, 31, was found dead in his hotel room prior to Sunday's match against Udinese, though the reason for his passing remains unclear.

All seven of the day's Serie A fixtures were postponed following the news , with an autopsy scheduled as the Viola squad flew back to Florence.

Speaking to reporters outside Fiorentina's training ground, Della Valle explained how a meeting for Astori to sign a new contract was moved from last Thursday due to dreadful weather conditions.