AS Roma have reportedly identified Algeria international Rafik Belghali as a priority target to strengthen their right-back options following the defender’s relegation from Serie A with Hellas Verona.
The 24-year-old, who represented Algeria at the recent World Cup finals held across the United States, Mexico and Canada, faces an uncertain future after Hellas Verona dropped to Serie B. He joined the Italian club only last summer from Belgian side KV Mechelen for approximately €2 million, managing two goals in 26 league appearances during a debut campaign disrupted by recurring ankle problems between January and March.
Roma and Inter enter the race
According to reports, Roma view Belghali as the leading candidate to fill their right-back vacancy after losing Turkish defender Zeki Celik to Juventus. The Giallorossi are eager to capitalise on Verona’s relegation to secure the Algerian’s signature.
However, Roma face stiff competition from city rivals Inter Milan. The Nerazzurri have included Belghali on their shortlist of potential heirs to Denzel Dumfries, having already missed out on primary targets Marco Palestra and Anan Khalaili. Earlier speculation also connected Fiorentina and Bologna with interest in the former Mechelen player.
Financial demands and next steps
Hellas Verona are rumoured to be demanding around €15 million for Belghali, a figure that would generate substantial profit on the €2 million investment made just 12 months ago. Sources suggest that if Roma formalise their interest, the deal could be structured as a loan with an option to buy, given the significant valuation.
Belghali’s international pedigree and brief Serie A experience make him an attractive prospect for clubs seeking defensive reinforcements. With Verona now preparing for life in the second tier, the Algeria full-back appears likely to depart in search of top-flight football, with the Rome derby set to extend from the pitch to the transfer market over his signature.