Santiago Castro received a hero’s welcome from approximately 300 Roma supporters upon arriving in the Italian capital on Monday evening. The Argentine striker travelled from Bologna to undergo medical tests on Tuesday, when he will complete a move that represents the Giallorossi’s first major signing of the summer window.
The 21-year-old will join Roma in a deal worth €35 million plus performance-related bonuses. The agreement also includes a 10 per cent sell-on clause benefiting Bologna should Castro move again in the future. His arrival triggers a complex exchange between the clubs, with Ukraine international Artem Dovbyk heading in the opposite direction to fill the void left by Castro’s departure.
Striker exchange reshapes Emilia-Romagna attack
Dovbyk is set to join Bologna on a season-long loan with an option to buy set at €17 million. Crucially, the Emilia-Romagna club will cover the striker’s full salary during the temporary spell. Both players are expected to complete their medical examinations on Tuesday, clearing the way for official announcements from both clubs.
The domino effect continues Bologna’s rebuilding process. The club is also preparing to welcome midfielder Mikel Amondarain from Argentine side Estudiantes on the same day. The 21-year-old has received clearance to travel from South America for his medical, with the transfer valued at €10 million plus performance-related bonuses.
Milan win defensive race
AC Milan will examine defender Sankhoun Diawara on Tuesday after agreeing a €3 million deal with French club Troyes. The Rossoneri fended off competition from Glasgow Rangers to secure the young defender, with the agreement including a percentage of any future transfer fee for the Ligue 1 side.
While these three clubs prepare for medical examinations, Monza have already finalised their business by securing 21-year-old striker Gustavo Varela from Benfica. The Portuguese club confirmed the permanent transfer on Monday, adding firepower to their attack ahead of the new campaign.
The flurry of activity suggests the Serie A transfer market is gathering momentum as clubs work to complete their squads before the window closes.