Luciano Valente is definitively moving from FC Groningen to Feyenoord, according to AD, RTV Noord, and VI. According to various media outlets, the clubs reached an agreement on Friday. Feyenoord is reportedly paying 7 million euros for the midfielder.
Feyenoord has been pursuing Valente for some time, but FC Groningen was reluctant to let him go easily. Reportedly, the thirteenth-place finisher of last season initially wanted 8 million euros for the 21-year-old attacking midfielder, plus 1.5 million in bonuses.
While Valente was with Jong Oranje reaching the semi-finals of the European Championship in Slovakia, negotiations between FC Groningen and Feyenoord continued. FC Groningen has lowered its initial asking price and is settling for a sum of around 7 million euros.
However, this transfer fee may still increase through bonuses. Additionally, FC Groningen will receive a portion of the transfer fee if Valente makes another transfer in the future. But first, he will sign a contract until mid-2029 in Rotterdam-Zuid.
Valente, the son of an Italian father, debuted for FC Groningen in 2022. That debut season was difficult and ended in relegation, but Valente achieved sporting revenge in the two subsequent seasons. He was promoted with FC Groningen after one season in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie and then excelled in the Eredivisie.
Ultimately, he played 94 official matches in green and white. Last season, Valente contributed two goals and seven assists in the Eredivisie.
Valente third reinforcement for Feyenoord
Feyenoord for the upcoming season is starting to take shape. Eredivisie top scorer Sem Steijn has already been acquired from FC Twente. Valente is therefore the next newcomer, and the Malian Gaoussou Diarra is expected to arrive from Turkish Istanbulspor.
However, this is offset by the departure of players such as Quilindschy Hartman. The left-back completed his transfer to Premier League club Burnley this week. Dávid Hancko and Igor Paixão may also leave De Kuip.