Venezia's defensive overhaul: why the 18‑year‑old Ale Gomes matters

Venezia have secured a deal to bring 18‑year‑old centre‑back Ale Gomes from Real Zaragoza to Serie A, with a transfer fee of €2 million plus bonuses, pending final signatures. The move addresses the newly promoted side’s need to reinforce a defence that will face top‑flight opposition.

Having earned promotion after winning the Serie B title in 2025‑26, Venezia must upgrade their squad to compete in Italy’s top division. Strengthening the back line is a priority as the club prepares for the challenges of Serie A.

Gomes logged 13 appearances in the Spanish second division during the 2025‑26 season, adding two Copa del Rey matches and eight outings with Zaragoza’s reserve side in the fourth tier. His exposure to senior football at a young age provides valuable experience for a Serie A debut.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the transfer fee of €2 million, supplemented by performance‑related bonuses, has been agreed between Venezia and Real Zaragoza. Both clubs now await the signing of the necessary documents to finalise the move.

Venezia’s recruitment drive includes deals for Arnel Bella‑Kotchap, Toma Basic, Thorir Johann Helgason, Kornel Lisman, Lorenzo Berardi and Thierry Correia. These additions further reinforce the squad across multiple positions.

Sparta Prague defender Albion Rrahmani is scheduled to undergo a medical with Venezia at the start of next week, indicating another potential reinforcement. The club’s activity suggests an aggressive transfer strategy ahead of the new season.

Finalisation of Gomes’ transfer hinges on the completion of paperwork and the integration of new signings into pre‑season preparations. Any delay in signatures or medicals could affect Venezia’s ability to field a fully reinforced squad for their Serie A campaign.