AS Roma have secured an agreement to sign Leonardo Balerdi from Olympique de Marseille, with the Argentine centre-back poised to join the Serie A club on an initial loan arrangement that includes a mandatory purchase option.
The 27-year-old defender, who has worn the captain’s armband for Marseille during the past two campaigns, has been omitted from the squad for this weekend’s Ligue 1 match against AS Monaco. Manager Bruno Genesio confirmed the exclusion as the transfer nears completion.
Medical and deal terms
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the Giallorossi have finalised terms for a paid loan with an obligation to buy triggered under specific conditions. This formula satisfies Marseille’s immediate financial demands whilst allowing Roma to spread the cost of the acquisition.
Balerdi is scheduled to travel to Italy over the weekend to undergo his medical assessment and sign the necessary paperwork. The move concludes a six-year spell in France for the defender, who accumulated exactly 200 appearances for the club since his arrival from Borussia Dortmund in 2020.
Financial pressures force Marseille hand
The deal has been accelerated by the French club’s urgent need to generate revenue through player sales. Marseille’s board are under strict instructions to balance the books, making the sale of their captain a necessary step despite his status within the dressing room.
During his tenure at the Stade Vélodrome, Balerdi established himself as a defensive stalwart after initially joining on loan from the Bundesliga. His leadership qualities saw him appointed skipper for consecutive seasons, guiding the team through periods of transition both domestically and in European competition.
Broader squad changes
Balerdi’s departure represents the most high-profile exit in a wider squad reshuffle. Marseille are also negotiating the potential transfer of Brazilian winger Igor Paixão, with Sunderland AFC maintaining an interest in the 26-year-old as the Ligue 1 side continues its efforts to reduce the wage bill.
For Roma, the acquisition addresses a pressing need for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new campaign. The player is reportedly enthusiastic about the switch to Italian football, with the deal expected to be finalised swiftly following the completion of his medical examinations.