João Mário and Alberto Costa are switching clubs this summer, with Juventus and FC Porto reportedly finalizing a direct swap deal but it’s not as straightforward as it sounds.
While the players are heading in opposite directions, the deal also includes a financial component. Porto will send €3 million to Juventus as part of the exchange.
On paper, Costa is valued slightly higher; Porto are said to be paying around €15 million plus €1 million in add-ons, while Juventus’ deal for João Mário sits at about €12 million.
Sports journalist and transfer Expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the arrangement via his official X handle. He Said:
“João Mário to Juventus, Alberto Costa to FC Porto… here we go! Swap deal agreed after exclusive story on Monday night.
“Alberto Costa valued at €15m plus €1m add-ons. João Mário valued at €12m. Porto will pay €3m plus €1m add-ons as compensation.”
Costa, still just 21, hasn’t had much time in Italy he only joined Juve in early 2025 and made 14 appearances with a handful of assists. Porto see him as a long-term piece, and he’s reportedly agreed to a contract until 2030 that’ll pay around €1.5 million a year.
Softfootball also understands that Juventus have also reportedly reached a full agreement with Porto to sign Francisco Conceicao but the winger must forgo a fee before he can leave. Also, both clubs agreed to a four-year instalment plan.
The Bianconeri have agreed to pay €32 million (£28m/$37m) for the Portuguese winger, broken down into four instalments of €8m. That is on top of the €9.5m already paid for his loan last season, bringing the total package close to €40m (£36m/$45m).
Mário, who’s been more of a consistent figure at Porto, played 39 games last season and chipped in five assists. His arrival fits Juventus’ broader reshuffle under Igor Tudor, who is said to be revamping the squad for the new season.
The clubs are ironing out the final paperwork, but the expectation is that everything will be wrapped up soon. For both sides, the swap seems to tick key boxes Porto get a promising talent in a position they needed, while Juve bring in a more experienced head for their midfield.
