Fiorentina market, looks to Russia for defense

Paolo Vanoli’s cure seems to be starting to work for Fiorentina. The purple team, coming off a disastrous start to the season under the guidance of the returning Stefano Pioli, still remains at the bottom of the Serie A standings. However, the comeback draw obtained on the last day against Juventus, the Gigliati’s historical opponent, has restored momentum and confidence, which are fundamental elements to get out of the complicated situation as soon as possible. However, the club knows that in the winter market it will be necessary to intervene to reinforce a staff that so far has not performed as well as expected.

For the defense, many names have been circulating in recent weeks, and Nino’s has been added to the list. The Brazilian, an Olympic gold medalist with the greenoro selection in Tokyo, now plays for Zenit St. Petersburg, a club that in the past has been led by two Italian coaches of great weight: Luciano Spalletti and Roberto Mancini. Zenit bought him from Fluminense at the beginning of 2024, paying five million euros.

According to the Brazilian press, the Fluminense management would like to bring him back as early as January, but Marcílio Florêncio Mota Filho, this is his full name, does not seem intent on returning. His entourage lets it filter that he would be ready to leave Zenit, but would prefer to stay in Europe for a new experience. Fiorentina is considering a move, but the Recife-born 1997 class defender is also liked by other clubs. Galatasaray is reportedly ready to offer 10 million euros for his player card. In the past, Nino has also worn the Criciuma jersey.

Criciuma, a team from the state of Santa Catarina, has seen its dream of returning to the Brazilian Serie A extinguished in recent weeks. Promotion has been won by Coritiba, Athletico Paranaense, Chapecoense and the surprising Remo.