The Bayern Munich striker started his career with the Canarini and is from Pavullo nel Frignano, a small town near Modena, so he was heartbroken to hear that the club was going through severe financial difficulties.

“Luca Toni, via his agent Tullio Tinti, confirmed he was replying to the call of President Gianni Gibellini aimed at bringing Modena-based businessmen closer to their club with incentives and financial aid,” read a statement.

“All this is a sign of thanks and respect for everything that the city and Modena FC have done for him and still represent in his eyes to this day.

“Toni hopes to help the team overcome this difficult moment.”

The club did not reveal the extent of the investment Toni is placing into the club or whether he intends to take a spot on the Board of Directors in future.

The 2006 World Cup winner entered the Modena youth system in 1990 and played for the club until 1996, going on to experiences at Empoli, Fiorenzuola, Lodigiani, Treviso, Vicenza, Brescia, Palermo, Fiorentina and Bayern Munich.

Toni began his professional career with the Canarini in Serie C1 with seven appearances and two goals in the 1994-95 campaign.

Modena are currently in Serie B and Saturday’s 2-0 win over Frosinone took them off the foot of the table, but only because Treviso have a four-point penalty.