Roma and Bologna have reportedly found an agreement over Santiago Castro’s transfer to the Stadio Olimpico. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Argentine forward is on the verge of joining the Giallorossi in a deal worth around €30 million.

It’s been a disappointing start to the summer transfer window for Roma. They were agonizingly close to signing Mason Greenwood from Marseille, only for Fenerbahce to hijack their move at the 11th hour.

Gian Piero Gasperini must have had a sense of deja vu when Al-Hilal swooped in to steal Crysencio Summerville right under his nose, even though Roma and West Ham United had come to an agreement before the Dutch star’s transfer to Riyadh.

Determined to avoid another saga, Roma agreed a deal with Bologna in a flash. As a result, Castro is expected to join the Giallorossi in the coming days.

Our take on Roma & Castro

Castro is not exactly the type of player Gasperini has been looking for this summer. Despite his versatility, the 21-year-old mainly operates as a center-forward, a position currently occupied by Donyell Malen. Therefore, he is likely to play second fiddle to the Dutchman next season unless Gasperini decides to change his system.

However, with Roma set to return to the Champions League, Castro’s addition could prove invaluable. The Argentine’s numbers last season failed to impress, given that he scored just 11 goals in 51 matches across all competitions. Yet, his work ethic and relentless pressing make him an ideal fit for Gasperini’s high-intensity style of play.

At 21, he also has plenty of room for development, and working under a coach renowned for improving young talent could help him unlock his full potential. As such, this feels like a good deal for Roma.