Fiorentina’s Valdepenas arrival leaves Real Madrid with future cut

Fiorentina have signed defender Victor Valdepenas from Real Madrid to bolster a defence that can benefit from his ability to operate both as a left‑back and a centre‑back, the 20‑year‑old who turns 20 in October, after a summer of success with Spain's Under‑19 European Championship side.

The Italian club paid €8 million for the centre‑back, while the Spaniards reportedly retain 50 per cent of any future sale fee, a clause that keeps Real Madrid financially linked to his progress.

“I am super happy to be here,” Valdepenas told the official Fiorentina website, adding, “From 1 to 10, how excited am I? I’d say 20!” The young defender also praised the training ground and the city, calling Florence “an incredible place”.

Fiorentina gamble on versatile Valdepenas as Real Madrid retain stake

The agreement had been reached several weeks ago, but Jose Mourinho asked Real Madrid to keep Valdepenas in the squad for part of pre‑season until other internationals returned from their vacations.

Valdepenas was a member of the Spain squad that won the European Under‑19 Championship this summer, a triumph that highlighted his pedigree at youth level.

He confirmed he can play as a left‑back or a central defender when required, but prefers the left side, describing himself as “an aggressive defender, good technically and tactically, as well as my pace”.

Speaking about his move, Valdepenas mentioned conversations with former Fiorentina player Borja Valero, praised the club’s history, and said he “can’t wait to see all the fans in the stadium”. A photo from a LaLiga EA Sports match in Vitoria‑Gasteiz, SPAIN, shows the 20‑year‑old duelling with Lucas Boye of Deportivo Alaves on 14 December 2025.