Fiorentina Advances Talks for Juventus Full-Back Joao Mario in €9m Deal
Fiorentina is currently in advanced negotiations to secure Portugal international Joao Mario from Juventus on a loan deal containing an option to buy for a total fee between €8m and €9m, according to Sky Sport Italia transfer pundit Gianluca Di Marzio. The 26-year-old full-back has struggled to cement a long-term future in Turin following a €12m transfer from FC Porto during the summer of 2025.
The proposed structure allows Fiorentina to evaluate the defender throughout the season before committing to a permanent transfer. Under the initial terms of his departure from Porto, the Portuguese club was owed a 10 percent cut of any future sale profit. However, market valuation drops mean that structured fee is unlikely to yield returns in this specific transaction.
Loan Spells Highlight Search for Regular Playing Time
Joao Mario spent the second half of last season on loan at Bologna as part of an exchange arrangement that sent Emil Holm in the opposite direction. Neither club ultimately triggered a permanent purchase option, leading to the defender’s return to Juventus ahead of the current campaign.
During his stint in Turin, the defender made 13 total appearances and contributed one assist. Following his mid-season switch to Bologna, he added another 15 appearances and scored two goals across all competitions before returning to his parent club.
Did you know? Joao Mario featured in the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 for Bologna against AS Roma during the 2025/26 season, gaining crucial continental experience before heading back to Juventus.
Financial Terms and Future Outlook in Serie A
Juventus is looking to streamline its squad, and the player has no long-term future under the current sporting project in Turin. The valuation agreed upon in principle with Fiorentina reflects a depreciation from his original €12m price tag from Porto.
Negotiations continue to progress toward a finalized agreement. If completed, the move will grant the Portuguese defender an opportunity to establish himself within Fiorentina’s defensive setup on a temporary basis with a clear path to a permanent stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total fee for Joao Mario’s potential move to Fiorentina?
According to Sky Sport Italia, the proposed deal is a loan with an option to buy for a total fee ranging between €8m and €9m.
Which clubs have Joao Mario played for in Serie A?
He has played for Juventus, Bologna on loan, and is currently in advanced talks with Fiorentina.
How many appearances did he make for Juventus?
He made 13 appearances and contributed one assist for Juventus before his loan move to Bologna.
What do you think of this potential transfer? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts on whether Joao Mario will revive his career in Florence.
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