Hellas Verona have signed Pol Lirola on a free transfer from Olympique Marseille. The 28-year-old Spanish right-back agreed to a permanent deal until June 2026, with an option for another two years. His agent, Vlado Lemić, helped seal the move. Lirola arrived in Verona for medical tests and will join training soon.
Lirola spent the last few years at Marseille. He joined them in 2021 after a loan from Fiorentina turned permanent. He played over 100 games there but fell out of the starting lineup this season. His contract had little time left, so Marseille let him go without a fee.
Before France, he came through Espanyol’s youth system and had spells at Juventus and Sassuolo too. Serie A fans remember him from Fiorentina, where he impressed with goals and assists from the wing-back role.
Verona needed cover at right-back. Jackson Tchatchoua has been the main option, but injuries hit the squad. Pawel Dawidowicz can fill in, but the coach wanted a natural fit. Lirola brings pace and attacking runs.
He scores from a distance at times. At 1.83 metres, he wins headers too. His experience in big leagues helps a team fighting mid-table.
The club sits around 12th in Serie A. They stayed up comfortably last year under Paolo Zanetti. This season started slow but picked up with wins over smaller sides. Lirola could debut soon in league or cup games. Fans hope he adds balance on the right. The Bentegodi stadium crowd likes overlapping full-backs.
No big fee makes it smart business. Verona works on a tight budget. Free signings like this help compete. Lirola stayed fit mostly at Marseille. He played Europa League games too. That experience suits Verona’s aims for steady points.
Agent Vlado Lemić has links to many transfers. He works with players across Europe. The deal wrapped quick once Marseille agreed to release him.
Fans reacted well online. Many said ‘welcome’ in Italian and Spanish. Some posted old highlights from his Fiorentina days. A few were worried about his recent form. But most see it as a solid addition.
Lirola posted a short message on social media. He said he was excited for the new chapter. Marseille thanked him for his time. The club wished him luck.
This move fits January trends. Clubs add depth without spending big. Verona has made quiet signings before that paid off. Lirola trains with the group now. He learns the system. Zanetti likes high press and quick transitions. The Spaniard fits that.
Verona play next at home. Lirola might get minutes off the bench. Full debut could come soon after. The signing gives options. Competition pushes players. Tchatchoua keeps his spot but knows pressure.
Verona aims for a top-half finish. Europe feels far, but steady results build. Lirola helps that push. Fans wait for his first game. The yellow and blue shirt suits him. Another chapter starts in Italy. This deal shows how free agents change teams. Experience without cost. Verona hopes it works out.
