AS Roma, one of Italy’s most iconic football clubs, has always been active in the transfer market, looking to strengthen their squad and challenge for top honors in Serie A and European competitions. With a history of big-name signings and high-profile departures, Roma’s transfer activity is often the subject of intense speculation, especially as the summer and winter transfer windows approach.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the latest AS Roma transfer news, including confirmed signings, ongoing rumors, and potential targets for the club. We’ll also explore how the club’s transfer strategy under José Mourinho is shaping up and what fans can expect in the near future.
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AS Roma’s Transfer Strategy Under José Mourinho
Since José Mourinho’s appointment as head coach in 2021, AS Roma’s transfer policy has taken on a more tactical and pragmatic approach. Mourinho, known for his ability to win trophies, has been keen on signing players who not only fit into his tactical system but also bring a strong mentality and character to the squad.
Roma’s transfers under Mourinho have focused on bringing in experienced players who can make an immediate impact, as well as younger talents with high potential. The club has also been active in the market to strengthen areas of weakness, particularly in defense and attack.
Confirmed AS Roma Transfers (2023-2024)
As the transfer window progresses, here are the confirmed signings and departures for AS Roma:
1. Romelu Lukaku (Loan from Chelsea)
One of the biggest transfer stories of the summer for Roma was the arrival of Romelu Lukaku on a season-long loan from Chelsea. The Belgian striker, who has had successful spells at Inter Milan and Chelsea, was brought in to bolster Roma’s attack. With his physical presence, clinical finishing, and ability to lead the line, Lukaku is expected to form a key partnership with Tammy Abraham, and his arrival brings much-needed depth and quality to Roma’s offensive unit.
2. Leandro Paredes (Loan from Paris Saint-Germain)
Roma also secured the signing of Leandro Paredes on loan from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Argentine midfielder, known for his passing range, vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, will add creativity to Roma’s midfield. Paredes previously played in Serie A with Juventus, and his return to Italy is seen as a positive move for Roma, who needed to reinforce their midfield options.
3. Rasmus Kristensen (Loan from Leeds United)
AS Roma signed Rasmus Kristensen, the Danish full-back, on loan from Leeds United to provide depth at right-back. Kristensen brings energy and work rate to the Roma defense, offering Mourinho another option for his defensive line, especially in games where width and defensive solidity are key.
4. Ainsley Maitland-Niles (Free Transfer)
Another notable addition was Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who joined Roma on a free transfer after his contract with Arsenal expired. The English midfielder, capable of playing both in defense and midfield, provides versatility to Mourinho’s squad. His arrival adds depth in various positions, making him a valuable asset for Roma’s tactical flexibility.
Ongoing Transfer Rumors and Targets
While several key signings have already been confirmed, AS Roma is expected to remain active in the transfer market. Here are some of the ongoing rumors and potential targets that have been linked with the club:
1. Houssem Aouar (Olympique Lyon)
One of the most talked-about transfer rumors surrounding Roma is the potential signing of Houssem Aouar, the French midfielder currently playing for Olympique Lyon. Aouar, known for his technical ability, dribbling skills, and vision, has been linked with a move to Italy for several seasons, and Roma is reportedly interested in adding him to their midfield. His ability to create chances and link up play would fit well into Mourinho’s system, and Roma is said to be exploring a deal for the talented Frenchman.
2. Andrea Belotti (Free Transfer)
After a summer of speculation, Andrea Belotti, the Italian striker, joined Roma on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with Torino. Belotti, who has been one of Serie A’s top strikers for several years, is expected to provide Roma with another attacking option alongside Lukaku and Abraham. His experience in Italy and his goalscoring ability make him a valuable addition to Mourinho’s squad.
3. Gianluca Scamacca (West Ham United)
Roma has also been linked with a potential move for Gianluca Scamacca, the Italian striker who currently plays for West Ham United. Scamacca, known for his physicality, aerial ability, and goalscoring record, has been a target for several top Serie A clubs, and Roma could look to bring him in to further strengthen their attacking options. Scamacca’s potential addition would give Roma another powerful forward to complement the likes of Lukaku and Abraham.
4. Marash Kumbulla (Potential Departure)
On the departure front, Marash Kumbulla, the Albanian center-back, has been rumored to be a potential departure from Roma. While Kumbulla has shown promise, he has struggled to cement a regular starting spot in the first team. Clubs in Serie A and abroad are reportedly monitoring his situation, and a loan or permanent move could be on the cards if Roma decides to move him on.
5. Nicola Zalewski (Potential Departure)
Another player whose future is uncertain is Nicola Zalewski, the Polish wing-back. While Zalewski has been an important player for Roma, he has had limited opportunities under Mourinho, and a potential loan move to gain more first-team experience is not out of the question. However, given his talent and versatility, Roma may choose to hold onto him for the time being.
AS Roma’s Transfer Needs
With the transfer window still open, AS Roma’s squad is shaping up nicely, but there are still a few areas where they could look to strengthen:
- Central Midfield: While Paredes has added quality, Mourinho may still look for another central midfielder who can bring energy and box-to-box capabilities, especially in a competitive Serie A season.
- Right Wing-Back: With the arrival of Kristensen, Roma now has depth at right-back, but another attacking wing-back could add another dimension to their system, especially in matches where Roma will look to dominate possession and create width.
- Backup Striker: With Lukaku and Abraham as the main options up front, Roma could look for a backup striker who can provide support when needed. Belotti adds depth, but Roma may want an additional option to cover for injuries or suspensions.
FAQs About AS Roma’s Transfer Activity
1. Who has been AS Roma’s biggest signing in the 2023-2024 season? Roma’s biggest signing has been Romelu Lukaku, who joined on loan from Chelsea. The Belgian striker is expected to be a key figure in Roma’s attack, bringing experience and goals to the squad.
2. What other players have AS Roma signed recently? In addition to Lukaku, Roma has brought in Leandro Paredes (on loan from PSG), Rasmus Kristensen (on loan from Leeds), and Ainsley Maitland-Niles (on a free transfer).
3. Is Houssem Aouar joining AS Roma? While not yet confirmed, AS Roma is reportedly interested in signing Houssem Aouar from Lyon. The French midfielder has been linked with Roma for some time, and discussions about a potential transfer are ongoing.
4. Are AS Roma looking to sell any players? Roma could potentially part ways with Marash Kumbulla and Nicola Zalewski if the right offers come in. Kumbulla has been linked with a loan move, while Zalewski may also seek more first-team football elsewhere.
5. Will AS Roma sign another striker? Roma is reportedly interested in adding another striker, possibly Gianluca Scamacca from West Ham, to provide competition and depth in attack.
Conclusion
AS Roma’s transfer strategy under José Mourinho is focused on strengthening the squad with a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. The arrivals of players like Romelu Lukaku, Leandro Paredes, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles have bolstered Roma’s options, while the club is also exploring potential signings to further strengthen their midfield and attack. As the transfer window continues, Roma fans can expect more updates and possible signings, all aimed at achieving success both domestically and in European competitions.
