Schalke 04 have initiated talks with Fiorentina over a sensational cut-price move for Germany international Robin Gosens, with reports in Italy suggesting the Serie A side could release the wing-back for as little as €1 million.
The news, first reported by Sky Sports and confirmed by Football Italia, comes as Fiorentina embark on a major rebuild under new coach Fabio Grosso. The former World Cup winner has been tasked with overhauling a squad that underperformed last season, and Gosens appears surplus to requirements despite only arriving in Florence in the summer of 2025.
Gosens’ Fiorentina Frustration
Gosens joined Fiorentina from Union Berlin with high expectations, but the 31-year-old has struggled to replicate the form that once made him one of Europe’s most coveted left-sided players. A series of injuries and a tactical system that didn’t fully suit his marauding style limited him to just 18 appearances across all competitions in 2025/26, scoring once.
With Grosso’s arrival, the club has signalled a clear intention to reshape the roster. The coach himself recently admitted:
“Fiorentina want to rebuild and be competitive and lasting. We are aware of the work needed.”Moving Gosens off the wage bill would free up significant funds, even at a nominal fee.
Schalke 04’s Ambitious Rebuild
Schalke, meanwhile, are in the midst of their own reset. After consolidating in the Bundesliga following promotion, the Royal Blues are targeting experienced internationals to add quality and leadership. Gosens, with 22 caps for Germany and Champions League pedigree from his time at Inter Milan and Atalanta, fits the profile perfectly.
The reported €1m fee represents a staggering drop from the €15m Fiorentina paid just 12 months ago, but the club’s urgency to trim the squad has handed Schalke a potential bargain. Personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block, with Gosens keen on a return to his homeland after 18 months in Italy.
What the Move Means for All Parties
For Fiorentina, offloading Gosens—even at a heavy loss—is a necessary step in Grosso’s overhaul. The €1m, while symbolic, removes a high earner and opens up space for new signings in a crucial summer window. For Schalke, it’s a low-risk gamble on a player who, if fit and motivated, can provide elite delivery from the left flank and invaluable experience in a still-developing squad.
Gosens himself would have the chance to reignite his career in familiar surroundings, and potentially force his way back into the national team setup ahead of the 2026 World Cup on home soil. With Germany set to co-host the tournament, the timing could be perfect.
Key Takeaways
- Schalke 04 are in advanced talks to sign Robin Gosens from Fiorentina for a nominal €1m fee.
- Fiorentina are ready to take a huge financial hit as new coach Fabio Grosso rebuilds the squad.
- Gosens endured an injury-hit, disappointing single season in Serie A and is surplus to requirements.
- The move would give the Germany international a chance to revive his career ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
- A deal is expected to be finalised quickly, with personal terms unlikely to be an issue.
Quick Facts
Player: Robin Gosens (Germany international, age 31)
Current club: Fiorentina (Serie A)
Interested club: Schalke 04 (Bundesliga)
Reported fee: Approximately €1 million
Fiorentina paid in 2025: €15 million (from Union Berlin)
2025/26 appearances: 18, 1 goal (all competitions)
Source: Sky Sports / Football Italia