Newcastle United’s reported €12m (£10.3m) offer for Grêmio defender Viery now looks even further away from the Brazilian club’s expectations.
After rejecting Newcastle’s approach, Grêmio have also turned down an offer of the same value from Fiorentina, underlining their determination to secure a significantly higher fee for one of their most valuable young assets.
The 21-year-old has become one of the most talked-about defenders in Brazil this season.
After beginning the year as a squad player, he has developed into an automatic starter under Luís Castro. And his performances have helped attract attention from Benfica, Brighton… and now Fiorentina.
Fiorentina join race but face same response
According to reports from RTI Esporte, Fiorentina recently submitted an offer worth €12m (£10.3m) for Viery.
The Italian club view him as a priority target for next season following the arrival of new manager Fabio Grosso. The coach is said to appreciate Viery’s profile and believes his attributes are well suited to Italian football.
However, Grêmio immediately rejected the proposal.
That decision mirrors the club’s stance towards Newcastle’s reported bid and reinforces a message that has become increasingly clear over recent weeks. Grêmio are not interested in selling Viery at that level.
Club president Odorico Roman is reportedly working with an expectation of receiving around €20m (£17.2m) for 80% of the player’s economic rights, while other reports in Brazil have suggested the club would seek as much as €25m (£21.5m) before seriously engaging in negotiations.
Newcastle may need to decide next step
For Newcastle, the latest development provides a useful indication of where the market currently stands.
The Magpies were among the first clubs to scout Viery closely and have maintained their interest as his profile has grown. The important detail is that Grêmio have now rejected similar offers from two different clubs.
That makes their position difficult to ignore. Viery remains under contract until December 2029 and is protected by a €50m (£43m) release clause.
Grêmio therefore have little pressure to sell unless their valuation is met. And it is very clear they believe Viery has already moved beyond the €12m (£10.3m) bracket, so they appear willing to wait for an offer that reflects that belief.
