The transfer saga surrounding Viktor Lindelof has taken a significant turn as Fiorentina intensify their pursuit of the Swedish international. After eight years at Manchester United, the experienced center-back now finds himself at the center of a compelling transfer story that could see him reunite with former teammate David de Gea in Florence.
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Fiorentina Push Forward in Viktor Lindelof Negotiations
Fiorentina are exploring a surprise move for Victor Lindelof, opening negotiations with the defender’s camp as they search for a new centre back before the transfer window closes, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian club’s interest has intensified in recent weeks, with sources indicating that serious discussions are underway between all parties involved.
What makes Viktor Lindelof an attractive target for Fiorentina?
The answer lies in both his experience and availability. At 30 years old, Viktor Lindelof brings Premier League pedigree and international experience that Fiorentina desperately needs to strengthen their defensive line. The Italian club view Lindelof as an experienced addition who can immediately strengthen their defensive line.
Current Transfer Situation
Transfer Details | Status |
---|---|
Contract Status | Free Agent (left Manchester United June 2025) |
Transfer Fee | Free Transfer |
Competing Clubs | Fiorentina, Everton, Brentford |
Decision Timeline | Before transfer window closes |
Wage Requirements | Significant pay cut required |
Sources indicate that Lindelof also has two proposals from Premier League sides, giving him strong options both in England and abroad. For now, the decision rests entirely with the player, while Fiorentina are pushing to accelerate talks and finalise an agreement.
The De Gea Connection: A Reunion in Florence
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this potential transfer is the David de Gea factor. FootItalia insiders have been told that former team-mate David De Gea is acting as a middleman to get Lindelof to sign for the Florence-based side. The two Manchester United legends shared the dressing room for six years, developing a strong professional relationship that could prove crucial in this transfer.
How significant is David de Gea’s influence on Viktor Lindelof’s decision?
The relationship between the two former United stars appears to be a major factor. Reports in Italy state the goalkeeper is ‘pushing’ the Fiorentina board to pursue a move for his ex-defensive partner. De Gea’s successful career revival at Fiorentina, where he became one of Serie A’s top-performing goalkeepers, serves as an attractive example for Viktor Lindelof.
Viktor Lindelof’s Manchester United Legacy
Viktor Lindelof’s journey at Manchester United was marked by both triumphs and challenges. The 30-year-old spent eight years with the English Premier League giants. During his time at Old Trafford, Lindelof won the 2024 FA Cup as well as the 2023 EFL Cup. The defender made 284 appearances for the Red Devils, establishing himself as a consistent presence in their defensive setup.
Career Statistics at Manchester United
Seasons | Appearances | Trophies Won | Transfer Fee (Arrival) |
---|---|---|---|
2017-2025 | 284 | 2 (FA Cup 2024, EFL Cup 2023) | £31 million from Benfica |
Final Season | Limited appearances | – | Released on free transfer |
However, fitness issues plagued the 31-year-old in the last few seasons, and his stock steadily dropped at Old Trafford. That meant reduced game time, and Lindelof barely featured for Manchester United in the 2024/25 season.
Financial Considerations for the Transfer
One of the most significant hurdles in the potential Viktor Lindelof to Fiorentina transfer involves financial negotiations. At United, Lindelof banked €139k per week. That is far more than current top earner De Gea. The Spaniard earns approximately €73k per week so Lindelof can expect to earn similar to fit into the Viola’s budget.
This wage reduction represents a considerable sacrifice for Viktor Lindelof, but it could be the key to unlocking his move to Serie A and revitalizing his career in a new environment.
Competition from Premier League Clubs
While Fiorentina push forward with their negotiations, Viktor Lindelof has not lacked options. According to an update by reputed Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, Everton and Fiorentina are keen on signing Victor Lindelof. The Swedish defender also has interest from Brentford, giving him multiple pathways should the Italian move fall through.
Why might Viktor Lindelof choose Fiorentina over Premier League options?
Several factors could influence his decision:
- The De Gea connection and existing relationship
- Opportunity to experience Serie A football
- Potential for regular first-team football
- Fiorentina’s European ambitions
- The Florence outfit are showing ambition in this window, having already spent €84 million on new recruits
Fiorentina’s Defensive Needs
The timing of Fiorentina’s pursuit of Viktor Lindelof aligns perfectly with their squad requirements. The Italian club has identified defensive reinforcement as a priority, and the Swedish international’s profile matches their needs precisely. His experience in high-pressure situations, combined with his ball-playing abilities, would complement Fiorentina’s tactical approach under their current management.
Why Fiorentina Need Viktor Lindelof
Requirement | Viktor Lindelof’s Strengths |
---|---|
Experience | 284 Premier League appearances |
Leadership | Sweden national team captain |
Versatility | Can play multiple defensive roles |
Ball-playing ability | Excellent at playing out from the back |
Free transfer | No transfer fee required |
National Team Implications
The transfer situation has even affected Viktor Lindelof’s international career. The lack of interest in Lindelof caused some concerns in his native Sweden, with national team boss Jon Dahl Tomasson stating that he can’t call up the 31-year-old as long as he does not have a club.
This adds urgency to resolving his club situation, as Viktor Lindelof remains an important figure for Sweden and would want to continue his international career.
Current Status and Timeline
As the transfer window approaches its conclusion, the pressure is mounting on all parties to reach a resolution. Discussions over personal terms are in full swing, although it remains to be seen if Lindelof will make the move to Serie A or return to the Premier League.
The Swedish defender has been maintaining his fitness while considering his options, understanding that this decision could define the next phase of his career.
What This Move Could Mean for Both Parties
For Viktor Lindelof, a move to Fiorentina represents an opportunity to:
- Experience a new league and football culture
- Work alongside a trusted former teammate
- Potentially secure regular first-team football
- Contribute to an ambitious project in Serie A
For Fiorentina, signing Viktor Lindelof would provide:
- Immediate defensive improvement with proven experience
- A leader who can guide younger players
- Versatility in defensive formations
- Value for money as a free transfer
The negotiations between Viktor Lindelof and Fiorentina continue to advance, with both parties showing genuine interest in making the deal work. As the transfer window deadline approaches, this could be one of the most intriguing moves of the summer, potentially reuniting two Manchester United legends in the heart of Tuscany.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Viktor Lindelof will indeed begin a new chapter of his career in Serie A, with Fiorentina providing the perfect stage for his Italian adventure.
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FAQs
Is Viktor Lindelof’s move to Fiorentina confirmed?
No, the transfer is not yet confirmed. Viktor Lindelof is currently in talks with Fiorentina, but he also has offers from two Premier League clubs. The decision rests entirely with the player as negotiations continue.
Why did Viktor Lindelof leave Manchester United?
Viktor Lindelof left Manchester United when his contract expired in June 2025. The club chose not to offer him a contract extension after eight years of service, making him a free agent available for transfer.
How much would Viktor Lindelof earn at Fiorentina?
Viktor Lindelof would need to take a significant pay cut to join Fiorentina. He earned €139k per week at Manchester United, but would likely earn around €73k per week at Fiorentina, similar to David de Gea’s current salary.
What role is David de Gea playing in this transfer?
David de Gea is reportedly acting as a middleman, pushing Fiorentina’s board to pursue his former Manchester United teammate. The two players had a strong relationship during their six years together at Old Trafford.
Which other clubs are interested in Viktor Lindelof?
Besides Fiorentina, Viktor Lindelof has concrete offers from two Premier League clubs, identified as Everton and Brentford. He also had exploratory talks with Bayer Leverkusen earlier in the summer.