AC Milan's hopes of signing young defender Victor Valdepenas have been dashed as Fiorentina appears to be closing in on the deal. According to reports, the Serie A club has made significant strides in negotiations, overtaking Milan in the process. Valdepenas, a 2006-born player owned by Real Madrid, had been linked to the Rossoneri as a potential reinforcement for their defense.

The Fiorentina club has taken a proactive approach, establishing contacts earlier than rival clubs, which has given them a significant advantage. Milan had expressed interest in the young center-back, seeing him as an ideal profile to strengthen their defensive lineup. However, Fiorentina's swift action has halted Milan's attempts to enter the fray.

The deal is pending Jose Mourinho's approval, as the Real Madrid coach wants to assess Valdepenas during the team's preseason training. Only after this evaluation will Mourinho give his final green light for the transfer. Despite this, it seems likely that Valdepenas will join Fiorentina if he is to play in Serie A.

Milan will have to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements, as their pursuit of Valdepenas has been thwarted by Fiorentina's aggressive approach.