Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest were in the picture for Nicolo Fagioli in the summer transfer window. They could now regret their failure to sign the Italian.
The midfielder played regularly for a struggling Fiorentina team in the 2025/26 campaign. Even then, his qualities on the ball were clear to see and he became one of their leaders in the last few months of the season.
This led to discussions regarding his future, as both Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest were interested. La Viola’s stance was largely unclear but any major offers could’ve led to an exit. After staying, the ex-Juventus man has returned to the Italian national team following multiple good performances this season.
Now, some background about Fagioli has emerged and he could’ve departed in the summer.
Clubs had transfer chance
Today’s La Repubblica – via LaViola, note that there were indeed doubts around Fagioli in the summer. Late in the window, Fiorentina had considered his exit and a deal could’ve gone through for only €25m.
This could’ve been a great opportunity for Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest but no movement was made. This is seen as a sliding doors moment for the club, who now see Fagioli as a key player in midfield.
His recall to the Azzurri is a sign of that, as the club hadn’t played as well to give him a solid platform last season. Paolo Vanoli has returned and this is only helping Fagioli, who did well under him in the previous campaign.
Italy manager Roberto Mancini sees him as an important player in the 4-3-3. He believes the Juventus graduate can become a regular, especially if played alongside another tempo-dictating midfielder.
Our take: Fagioli would’ve been a great signing
Even at Juve, the 25-year-old’s talent was clear to see. In fact, his Bianconeri exit came as a shock to many and Fiorentina are reaping dividends.
At the same time, he could’ve been an excellent signing for both Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest. Fagioli is someone who should be playing in European competitions and could yet get a big move in the future.
His current deal in Florence runs out in 2028 and he only signed a three-year deal when joining. This suggests he too could have bigger ambitions soon.
