Exclusive: Fiorentina agree deal to sign Barcelona defender
Fiorentina are on the verge of welcoming their second defensive reinforcement this summer as the Tuscans have reached an agreement with Barcelona to sign Kospo.
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Fiorentina agree deal to sign Kospo from Barcelona
FLORENCE, ITALY – MAY 8: Robin Gosens of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Real Betis Balompie at Artemio Franchi on May 8, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by)
Sources with direct knowledge of the matter tell me that the agreement between the two clubs is done and sealed and includes a sell-on clause in favour of Barcelona.
Fiorentina have been following the 18-year-old centre-back for several months and are now completing the required documents to finalise the deal.
Fiorentina begin new era
Official: Pioli appointed Fiorentina head coach
Kospo made 12 appearances with the Barcelona U19 team in the 2024-25 season, including three in the UEFA Youth League.
Fiorentina have already signed Mattia Viti from Empoli in defence as well as central midfielder Jacopo Fazzini.
The Tuscans are set to begin a new era, having terminated Raffaele Palladino's contract after just one season and replacing the Italian tactician with his compatriot Stefano Pioli.
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