Venezia agree deal to sell Issa Doumbia to Sporting CP for up to €26m
Quick summary
Reports in Italy say Venezia have agreed the sale of midfielder Issa Doumbia to Sporting CP in a deal worth up to €26m including add-ons. The 22-year-old was a key player in Venezia's promotion campaign.
What happened
Venezia have reportedly reached an agreement to sell Issa Doumbia to Sporting CP for €20m plus bonuses that could take the total fee to €26m. Doumbia was one of Venezia's most important players during their Serie B promotion season, contributing eight goals and six assists in 37 league appearances. The report adds that Venezia will also keep a small percentage of any future sale. The move would mean Venezia lose a major midfield contributor just after securing promotion to Serie A.
Chance analysis
This matters because Venezia appear set to lose one of their most productive central midfielders immediately after promotion, which could weaken their transition into Serie A. For Sporting CP, it looks like an aggressive move to add a young, productive midfielder with upside and resale value.
If completed, the move would strengthen Sporting CP's midfield options and reduce Venezia's proven output ahead of their Serie A return.
Treat this as a likely negative squad-news signal for Venezia's midfield strength and continuity, pending official confirmation.