Romano seals Cagliari switch
AS Roma have officially sent midfielder Alessandro Romano to Cagliari on a loan arrangement that includes a conditional obligation to buy. The 20-year-old Swiss-Italian talent moves to Sardinia with an initial option to purchase set at €5 million plus €1.5 million in add-ons, which becomes mandatory should specific conditions be triggered during the loan period.
The transfer offers Romano a chance to establish himself in Serie A after struggling to break into Roma’s first team. He has committed to a long-term contract with the Sardinian club that extends until June 2032, indicating Cagliari’s confidence in his potential should the permanent transfer be activated. The agreement represents a significant financial commitment from the Sardinians, reflecting the potential Roma identified when they signed the midfielder two years ago.
From Winterthur to Rome and beyond
Romano arrived at Roma in the summer of 2022 following his development at Swiss club Winterthur’s youth academy. During his time with the Giallorossi, he progressed through the club’s youth sectors, featuring regularly for the Under-17 side and subsequent age-group teams.
However, senior opportunities proved limited. The left-footed midfielder has managed just two Serie A appearances for the capital club, both as brief substitute cameos in January 2026. Recognising the need for regular competitive football, he spent the six months prior to this transfer on loan at Spezia in Serie B, gaining valuable experience in Italy’s second tier before securing this return to the top flight.
Versatile addition for the Sardinians
Romano provides tactical flexibility, capable of operating in multiple roles across the centre of the pitch. Despite holding an Italian passport, he has elected to represent Switzerland at international level.
Cagliari will view the arrangement as a calculated opportunity to bolster their midfield options. The structure of the deal—beginning as a loan with a conditional obligation—allows the club to assess Romano’s contribution before the fee becomes mandatory. For the player, it represents a crucial stage in his development after an initial grounding in senior football with Spezia.