Fiorentina have announced the signing of defender Viery Fernandes Santos Lopes from Gremio, securing the Brazilian for a reported fee of €15 million including performance-related add-ons. The 21-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the Serie A club.
The defender, who turned 21 in January, travelled to Italy to undergo medical examinations before finalising his transfer. He becomes Fiorentina’s first acquisition of the current window, bolstering their defensive ranks.
Versatile defensive profile
Viery arrives with senior experience despite his youth, having contributed two goals in 27 competitive appearances for Gremio last season. A product of the Brazilian club’s youth academy, he earned promotion to the first-team setup in 2025.
Though mainly deployed as a centre-back, the defender offers tactical flexibility through his ability to operate at right-back. He models aspects of his game on several legendary figures in his position. “I studied the way Sergio Ramos played in defence, I loved the Paolo Maldini videos and today I can appreciate the style of Virgil Van Dijk,” Viery told the club’s official website. “There are other players I watch too and find things in each of them to appreciate, so I can try to improve my own game. I am a defender with good stamina, make the most of my physical strength, and like to participate in playing out from the back.”
Beating European rivals
Fiorentina secured Viery’s services despite competition from several major clubs. The defender had attracted interest from Italian rivals Juventus, Roma and Napoli, whilst English Premier League sides Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United had also been linked with moves for the Brazilian.
The player expressed his enthusiasm for the move to Tuscany. “It is very exciting for me to be the first signing of the season,” he said. “I worked very hard at Porto Alegre and gave everything for Gremio, so now I am enjoying this special moment. I feel very honoured to wear the Fiorentina shirt.”
Viery was unable to watch Brazil’s World Cup Round of 32 victory over Japan due to his travel arrangements to Europe, but confirmed his support for Carlo Ancelotti’s national team. “I am sure we’ll get to the Final,” he added.