Fiorentina’s €20m chase for Pellegrino triggers Bologna and Köln moves

Fiorentina are closing in on Argentine centre‑forward Mateo Pellegrino to replace a departing striker, a move that will cost around €20m and unlock linked deals for Roberto Piccoli at Bologna and Thijs Dallinga at FC Köln. The need for Pellegrino is evident as the Viola seek a proven Serie A scorer.

Multiple sources, including Sky Sport Italia, and Fabrizio Romano, confirm that the €20m fee is near finalisation and that Pellegrino has already agreed personal terms with the Viola. The Argentine’s readiness was highlighted in a PARMA, ITALY – AUGUST 30 photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images, showing him reacting during a Serie A clash at Stadio Ennio Tardini.

€20m fee close to completion

While Juventus had monitored Pellegrino as a potential alternative to Randal Kolo Muani, the club’s interest has faded as Fiorentina move forward. The transfer, reported by Sky Sport Italia and , reflects Fiorentina’s strategic shift toward a more physical forward to bolster their attack.

Once the Pellegrino deal is sealed, Fiorentina will be positioned to send Roberto Piccoli to Bologna for €15m plus add‑ons, likely structured as a loan with an obligation to buy at season’s end. This secondary move aligns with Bologna’s intent to reinforce their front line after parting with a misfiring striker.

Dallinga’s Köln loan confirmed

Bologna are creating space for Piccoli by dispatching Thijs Dallinga to FC Köln on a loan with an option to buy. Werder Bremen have shown interest, but Köln are ahead in negotiations, according to the same sources.

The domino effect began earlier when Parma secured El Bilal Touré from Atalanta on loan for €1.5m, with an obligation to purchase for an additional €10m plus add‑ons. That initial transaction set the stage for the current chain of moves.

Next steps and remaining hurdles

Final approval of Pellegrino’s €20m transfer hinges on medicals and contract formalities, while Bologna and Köln must complete their respective agreements before the summer window closes. The coordinated nature of these deals underscores the intricate planning across Serie A clubs.