Journalist Alfredo Pedulla has firmly rejected claims that Fiorentina and Roma are negotiating over Brazilian defender Dodo. Writing on his YouTube channel, the reporter insisted no discussions exist between the clubs despite earlier speculation linking the Giallorossi with a move for the full-back.
Reports had suggested Roma might target Dodo following Zeki Celik’s transfer to Juventus. Celik’s move created a vacancy in defence, prompting speculation that the Giallorossi would pursue the Brazilian. However, Pedulla described such claims as unfounded. “Those who spoke of negotiations being set up between Fiorentina and Roma to take Dodo after Celik’s exit, none of this is true to me,” he stated. “There are no negotiations and there is no interest.”
Roma speculation quashed
The denial ends any prospect of Dodo joining Roma for now. Pedulla noted that he had previously trusted Fiorentina’s public stance on the matter, adding: “I trusted Fiorentina, who said the opposite of what actually happened, and it wasn’t very nice.”
Despite closing the door on Roma, Pedulla confirmed that Dodo is still set to leave Fiorentina. “Roma are not on Dodo. The Brazilian is on his way out of Fiorentina,” he said. The comments clarify weeks of uncertainty surrounding the player’s future.
Alternative destinations
Fiorentina are holding out for approximately €15 million for the defender, who is contracted until 2027. Napoli have tested the ground for a potential deal and have been among the more persistent domestic admirers, while offers from abroad have also been received.
The presence of foreign interest suggests Dodo could leave Italian football entirely, though no specific leagues or clubs have been named. With several weeks remaining in the transfer window, Fiorentina maintain a strong negotiating position due to the player’s contract length, though the club may face pressure if the standoff continues.
The situation remains fluid, with Pedulla noting that “the situation can change at any moment.” Dodo has publicly indicated his wish to leave, and with Roma no longer in the frame, the full-back’s future likely lies elsewhere as the window progresses.