Fiorentina are on the verge of securing a sensational return to Serie A for veteran striker Edin Džeko, with the Bosnian agreeing to a one-year contract from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, sources confirmed to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The deal, which includes an option to extend until June 2027, will see the 38-year-old earn a net salary of €1.5-1.8 million per season.
The move marks a significant step in Fiorentina’s ambitious plans for the 2025/26 season, with former AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli expected to be appointed as the club’s new head coach.
Negotiations between Fiorentina and Džeko’s representatives have progressed rapidly over the past week, culminating in an agreement that will see the former AS Roma and Inter Milan star return to Italy.
Džeko, who has scored 14 goals in 34 appearances for Fenerbahçe this season, is set to undergo a medical in Florence within the next 48 hours, with the transfer expected to be finalized shortly thereafter.
The deal represents a low-risk, high-reward move for La Viola, as they aim to bolster their attacking options with a proven goal-scorer.
Džeko’s return to Serie A is a major coup for Fiorentina, who are looking to rebound from a mid-table finish in the 2024/25 campaign.
The 6’4” striker’s experience, aerial prowess, and clinical finishing are expected to complement the club’s youthful squad, providing leadership both on and off the pitch.
His previous stints in Italy, where he scored 119 goals in 267 Serie A matches, make him a fan favourite and a natural fit for Fiorentina’s attacking philosophy.
The appointment of Stefano Pioli as head coach, reported last week by Corriere dello Sport, is another key piece of Fiorentina’s rebuild. Pioli, who led AC Milan to the 2022 Serie A title, is expected to sign a two-year contract and bring a high-pressing, dynamic style to the Artemio Franchi Stadium.
The combination of Pioli’s tactical acumen and Džeko’s goal-scoring pedigree has sparked excitement among Fiorentina supporters, with #ForzaViola trending on social media as fans voice their optimism.
Fenerbahçe, meanwhile, are already scouting replacements for Džeko, who has been a key figure in their Süper Lig campaign. The Turkish club is expected to target a younger forward to fill the void left by the departing veteran.
As Fiorentina prepare to unveil their new striker and head coach, the club’s hierarchy is signalling their intent to compete for European qualification next season. With Džeko’s signing and Pioli’s imminent arrival, La Viola is poised for a transformative summer.
