Bologna have completed the signing of Niger international left-back Rahim Alhassane from Real Oviedo. The Serie A club announced the transfer on Monday, confirming that the 24-year-old has signed a contract at the Stadio Dall’Ara after completing medical examinations over the preceding days.
The deal is reported to be worth €3.5 million, a figure below the initial €4 million asking price mentioned in earlier reports. The player underwent his medical assessments in the days immediately before the announcement, allowing the club to finalise the move swiftly. Alhassane arrives in Italy following a season in which he made 28 competitive appearances for the Spanish second-tier side across league and cup competitions.
International Pedigree and Versatility
Alhassane brings significant international experience to his new club, having earned 23 caps for Niger despite his relatively young age. Although he functions primarily as a left-back, he is capable of playing in central defence, offering valuable flexibility to manager Vincenzo Italiano’s squad.
During his time at Real Oviedo, the defender established himself as a reliable presence, though he did not register any goals or assists during his 28 outings last campaign. His move to Serie A represents a considerable step up in competitive level and offers him the opportunity to test himself against some of Europe’s most attacking-minded wingers.
Beating Monaco to the Signature
Bologna faced genuine competition for Alhassane’s signature from Ligue 1 outfit AS Monaco, who had also identified the defender as a potential target. The Rossoblu acted decisively to secure the transfer, flying the player in for medical assessments before finalising the contract and announcing the move through their official channels.
The capture of Alhassane adds to the growing contingent of African talent in Italy’s top flight. For Bologna, the signing addresses their need for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season. Alhassane’s ability to operate across multiple positions in the back line provides the squad with additional depth and tactical options, particularly as the club prepares to balance domestic commitments with any European fixtures.