Fiorentina are reportedly interested in signing Joao Mario on loan from Juventus, according to reports in Italy. Juventus are prioritizing player sales and loan deals to reshape their squad and balance their finances, and Mario is among the players they are looking to move on.
Mario arrived at Juventus as part of a player exchange deal involving Alberto Costa, but has not featured prominently for the club, receiving negative assessments from both Igor Tudor and Luciano Spalletti. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Bologna, where his performances had prompted discussions about a potential return, with then-Bologna coach Thiago Italiano and sporting director Sartori exploring a new loan agreement. However, Italiano’s departure has complicated those plans.
While a return to Bologna remains a possibility depending on the plans of new coach Domenico Tedesco, Fiorentina have emerged as a strong contender. The Viola are aiming to reduce their wage bill and trim their squad, potentially leading to the departure of players like Dodo, who has attracted interest from Napoli and Roma, valued at around €15 million. Should Dodo leave, Mario would be considered a key target for Fiorentina to fill the right-sided role.
The initial discussions between Juventus and Fiorentina center around a loan deal with an obligation to buy, contingent on certain conditions being met. The overall cost of the loan and potential purchase is expected to be between €8 and €10 million, similar to figures previously discussed with Bologna. Mario is reportedly open to the move, attracted by the prospect of regular playing time, even with Fiorentina not competing in European competitions next season. The future of Nico Gonzalez, currently linked with a move to Atletico Madrid, may also be impacted by player sales as Juventus look to reshape their squad.
The outcome of Gonzalez’s performance at the upcoming World Cup could influence negotiations between the two clubs, with Juventus currently seeking around €30 million for the Argentinian, while Atletico are offering closer to €20 million.
