Fiorentina focusing on Brazilian talent Luiz Henrique

Luiz Henrique André Rosa da Silva’s 2024 was nothing short of spectacular. After a challenging stint at Real Betis in Seville, the Brazilian attacker returned home to lead Botafogo to both the Brazilian championship and the Copa Libertadores, earning him the South American Ballon d’Or. While the prospect of playing in the 2025 Club World Cup with O Glorioso (Botafogo’s nickname) is enticing, Luiz has made his intentions clear: he wants to return to Europe, and Fiorentina are dreaming of making that happen.

Calciomercato report how Luiz Henrique primarily operates on the right side of the attack, known more for his dribbling skills and playmaking abilities than his goal-scoring prowess. His 2024 season saw him contribute 12 goals and 5 assists in 55 appearances, impressive numbers for a player of his style. Launched by Fluminense, where he won the Campeonato Carioca and the Guanabara Trophy in 2022 alongside former Juventus, Inter, and Fiorentina midfielder Felipe Melo, Luiz Henrique is now ready for a second chance in European football.

His first European experience with Real Betis was underwhelming, with just one goal and three assists in La Liga during the 2022/23 season, despite playing over 40 matches. This led to his return to Brazil in January 2024, becoming the second most expensive signing in Brazilian football history at the time with a €16 million price tag.

Now, with the title of “King of South America” under his belt, Luiz Henrique is poised for another attempt in Europe. Fiorentina’s pursuit faces a significant hurdle in Botafogo’s owner, John Textor, who also owns Olympique Lyonnais. With Lyon facing potential relegation due to financial issues, Fiorentina might leverage this situation in negotiations.

Botafogo has set a €30 million price tag on Luiz Henrique, which would make him the most expensive signing in Fiorentina’s history. Sporting director Pradè has initially offered €20 million, up from an opening bid of €18 million. With the transfer window just opening, there’s a strong belief that Fiorentina will do everything possible to complete this deal, potentially bringing Luiz Henrique’s trademark Black Panther celebration to the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

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