Fiorentina lock €10 million loan for Portuguese full‑back João Mario

Fiorentina have completed a season‑long loan for 26‑year‑old Portuguese full‑back João Mario. Joao Mario arrived in Florence on Monday to undergo his medical at the Viola Park facilities. The deal includes a €1 million loan fee and a €9 million purchase option, totalling €10 million. Transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio confirmed the fee structure. His paperwork was completed at the Viola Park facilities, officially registering him with La Viola for the upcoming campaign.

Fiorentina are looking to plug a shortage at right‑back after a season of defensive frailties. The shortage at right‑back was highlighted by the team's defensive frailties last season. Club officials believe Mario can immediately strengthen a back‑line that lacked depth last campaign.

Mario previously signed for Juventus last summer from Porto for €12 million. He made ten Serie A appearances for the Old Lady before spending a loan spell at Bologna. The Bologna loan was part of the exchange that sent Emil Holm to Juventus.

While at Bologna, Mario scored in a February match, highlighting his attacking potential. He has earned three caps for the Portugal national team, though he has not featured since 2024.

The loan delivers a ready‑made full‑back who can compete for a starting spot as La Viola prepares for the new Serie A campaign. The option to buy gives Fiorentina flexibility to secure his services permanently if he proves decisive.

Juventus receive an immediate €1 million fee and the prospect of offloading a player who has struggled for regular minutes. The arrangement also helps the club recoup part of its €12 million investment in Mario.