Marten De Roon has landed in Rome to finalise his move to AS Roma. The Dutch midfielder's arrival at Fiumicino airport at 12:30 on Saturday, 30 August, officially kicks off his switch from Atalanta to the capital club, as reported by ANSA Sport.
De Roon flew in from Milan Linate and was met by members of the Giallorossi staff. He was recognised by many airport workers and young Roma fans present, who called out to him. The player stopped to take several selfies with supporters before leaving the terminal in a black van headed for Rome, where he is expected to undergo medical examinations.
Who is Marten De Roon
Marten De Roon is a 35-year-old Dutch midfielder with extensive Serie A experience. His career in Italy has been deeply intertwined with Gian Piero Gasperini, the current AS Roma manager. The pair shared a significant period at Atalanta, where De Roon became a midfield pillar and a dressing-room leader. This reunion is a key element of the deal. The player arrives to replace Neil El Aynaoui, whose transfer to RB Leipzig is now complete.
The Giallorossi squad context
AS Roma are strengthening their squad at a time of positive early-season momentum. According to data current as of 31 August, Gasperini's side are seventh in the standings with 3 points, from one win and no draws or losses after a single matchday. Their goal tally stands at 4 scored and 0 conceded, for a +4 goal difference. The Giallorossi are three points behind leaders Inter at this early stage. However, the squad must contend with several injury absentees, including El Aynaoui, as well as Devyne Rensch and Lorenzo Pellegrini, all listed on our injuries page.
What it means for the midfield
Adding De Roon brings experience and character to an area that will face important challenges. His familiarity with Gasperini's system and ideas should guarantee an immediate fit. His presence could free up other players for more attacking roles or provide solid defensive cover. El Aynaoui's departure had created a gap the club wanted to fill quickly with a reliable, known profile. The current squad situation can be viewed on our squad page.
The next league fixture
De Roon's official debut for the Giallorossi could come very soon. AS Roma are set to face his former club, Atalanta, in the next Serie A round. The match is scheduled for Friday, 5 September at the Stadio Olimpico and will pit seventh against ninth in the table. It will be an immediate test for the new signing and for a team looking to build on its strong start. All upcoming fixtures are available on our fixtures calendar.
This transfer operation fits into a phase of squad building under Gasperini. With De Roon, AS Roma gain a player of certain technical and human substance, useful for the long season ahead, which the team has started on the right foot.
