Villarreal have confirmed they have reached agreement for the transfer of defender Gonzalo Rodriguez to Fiorentina.
The 28-year-old will sign for the Serie A side subject to a medical and he follows the path trodden this week by midfielder Borja Valero, who joined the Tuscany club on Thursday.
Villarreal President Fernando Roig has been looking to balance the books since the Yellow Submarine suffered relegation at the end of last season and favourites to land Gonzalo’s signature looked to have been former club San Lorenzo de Almagro.
However, the experienced centre-back, who joined Villarreal from the Argentine outfit in July 2004, has opted to continue his career at the Stadio Artemi Franchi.
Gonzalo made 184 La Liga appearances in his time at El Madrigal, scoring six goals, and also represented Argentina six times.
“Villarreal would like to thank the players, both of whom have fought hard for the club over the years, for their dedication and professionalism.
“We would like to wish them the best of luck in their future personal and professional lives,” read a statement on the club’s official website.