Alex Jimenez is undergoing a medical in Florence ahead of completing a surprise loan move to Fiorentina from Bournemouth. The Serie A side have secured the 20-year-old right-back with an option to buy set at €20 million, allowing them to assess the Spaniard before committing to a permanent deal.
The 2005-born defender arrived in Italy on Friday to complete the first round of tests, with the transfer now at an advanced stage according to Sky Sport and Gianluca Di Marzio. Should Fiorentina wish to make the arrangement permanent, they would pay marginally more than the €19 million Bournemouth invested to sign Jimenez from Milan just six months ago.
Off-the-pitch issues force Cherries exit
Bournemouth’s decision to move Jimenez on stems from an off-the-pitch scandal involving alleged online messages with a teenage girl. The Premier League club, who activated their purchase option from Milan in January following an initial loan spell, have moved swiftly to remove the player from their squad barely half a year after making his stay permanent.
The rapid turnaround marks a dramatic change in fortunes for the defender, who had initially joined the Cherries on loan before Bournemouth secured his services permanently during the winter transfer window.
Return to familiar territory
Jimenez heads back to Serie A having previously impressed during his time at Milan. His familiarity with Italian football made him an attractive target for Fiorentina head coach Fabio Grosso, who requires additional depth in the full-back positions.
The structure of the deal offers Fiorentina significant flexibility. Rather than committing substantial funds immediately, the Viola can evaluate Jimenez’s performances throughout the season before deciding whether to trigger the €20 million purchase option next summer.
For the player, the move represents a chance to rebuild his reputation away from the scrutiny of the Premier League, returning to a league where he has already demonstrated his capabilities.