Heldt and Svensson confirm Gosens' imminent transfer to Fiorentina

Robin Gosens’ rumored loan-out to SCF Fiorentina has been confirmed by both Union Berlin head-coach Bo Svensson and FCU managing director Horst Heldt. Both club actors spoke on the impending move ahead of kickoff Friday night at Union’s home fixture against FC St. Pauli.

Most German footballing media sources are confirming that Gosens appears headed for a permanent move back to Serie A. Earlier reports claiming that a €7.5 million obligatory purchase clause will take effect once a small number of deployments are reached persist. Union will also pocket a €500,000 loan fee

“It was clear that Robin wished to leave the club from the beginning of training camp,” Heldt told German broadcaster DAZN, “This was for personal rather than sporting reasons, so I don’t wish to go into too much detail.” 

“Until half past four today, I assumed that Robin would be on the pitch and playing today,” Heldt continued, “Then the news came and we made it happen. There’s understanding for that.” 

“Of course, everyone can infer what’s about to happen based on the fact that he’s not in the squad,” Svensson added, “If there’s a Friday evening match on transfer deadline day, one can’t assume that it will be a normal day.” 

Gosens’ unfortunate 2023/24 season – the first the 30-year-old played in his native country – was widely considered a flop despite the fact that he led die Eisernen in scoring with seven league goals. Gosens’ estimated market worth has declined to €12 million. 

Union paid a reported €13 million to acquire him last summer. After a successful start, the 20-times-capped international tanked along with the rest of Urs Fischer’s squad. Gosens’ ended up missing the German-hosted European Championships this summer; a personal career lowlight for him.