Roma are reportedly closing in on a €35 million deal to sign Bologna striker Santiago Castro as the Giallorossi seek to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new campaign. Negotiations between the two Serie A sides have reached an advanced stage, with the final agreement expected to include additional performance-related bonuses and a percentage of any future sale fee. The proposed transfer fee represents a significant increase on the amount Bologna originally paid to acquire the Argentina international, demonstrating the player’s rapid development since arriving in Italy.
Castro capture nears completion
Castro only joined Bologna in January 2024 from Velez Sarsfield for €13.2 million. His potential departure would therefore represent a substantial return on investment for the Rossoblu, who would recoup their initial outlay and secure a significant profit less than 18 months after bringing the forward to Serie A. The deal would mark a considerable statement of intent from Roma as they look to bolster their front line with younger talent capable of leading the line in domestic and European competition.
The structure of the deal appears to favour Bologna’s financial strategy, with the inclusion of a sell-on clause ensuring they would benefit from any future transfer involving the player. Such arrangements have become increasingly common in Serie A as clubs look to maximise value from developing talent.
Dovbyk set for Bologna switch
The potential arrival of Castro in Rome could coincide with the exit of current Roma striker Artem Dovbyk. The Ukrainian forward is likely to join Bologna on loan, though sources indicate this would constitute a separate discussion between the clubs rather than forming part of the Castro transfer. This arrangement would see the two strikers effectively swap cities, albeit through distinct negotiations and separate financial arrangements rather than as a straight exchange.
The loan move would provide Dovbyk with the opportunity to feature regularly in Serie A, while Bologna would gain proven top-flight experience to offset Castro’s departure. The separation of the two deals allows both clubs to negotiate terms that suit their respective financial positions.
Rashford approach ruled out
Roma’s search for reinforcements has also led them to assess other high-profile targets. Marcus Rashford was proposed to the club by intermediaries following the England international’s loan spell at Barcelona. However, the wages Rashford currently earns at Manchester United render any prospective move to the Italian capital practically impossible, removing the forward from consideration despite his availability and previous experience in La Liga.
The rejection of the Rashford proposal highlights the financial constraints facing Italian clubs when competing with Premier League salary structures. The developments suggest a busy conclusion to the transfer window for the Giallorossi, who look set to secure Castro’s services to refresh their attack while allowing Dovbyk to secure regular playing time elsewhere in Serie A.