Fiorentina move quickly for Joao Mario as Juventus open door to loan deal

Fiorentina are continuing to work on their wide options after an already busy transfer window that has brought six signings. Christ Inao Oulai was officially announced yesterday, while the move for Víctor Valdepenas, the Spanish left-back expected to arrive in the coming days, now only awaits Mourinho’s approval. But Fabio Paratici is not done yet, particularly with Dodo attracting interest from clubs in Italy and abroad. The leading name to replace him is Joao Mário, the Portuguese full-back who has returned to Juventus after his loan spell at Bologna and is no longer part of the Bianconeri’s plans. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus would be open to letting him leave on loan.

Why Joao Mário appeals
Fiorentina like Joao Mário because of his versatility - he can play on either flank - and the experience he has already gained in Serie A. Luciano Spalletti recently used him in the second half of the friendly against Basel, which ended 0-0, bringing him on in place of Pierre Kalulu.

La Viola are hoping to secure a loan deal, possibly with a fee, including an option to buy. That would allow them to strengthen the squad without putting further strain on the club’s finances after the money already spent this summer.

Latest developments
Much will depend on how Dodo’s situation develops. Without his departure, the need for a new full-back would become less urgent, unless Fabio Grosso decides to rely permanently on Álex Jiménez, who is currently being used further forward out of necessity.

Fiorentina are also continuing to assess attacking options out wide, an area where Albert Gudmundsson is currently the only natural starter. Luca Koleosho remains on stand-by because of Burnley’s high demands, while Johan Bakayoko, Matteo Cancellieri and Cristian Volpato are still being monitored.