AS Roma have made a concrete move in the transfer market, submitting an offer to Olympique Marseille for Argentine defender Leonardo Balerdi. The news, reported by Sky Sport Italia, comes as Daniele De Rossi's side prepares for the second Serie A matchday sitting top of the table.
The Giallorossi's proposal is structured as a paid loan with an option to buy. According to the report, the purchase option could become an obligation if certain sporting conditions are met. This approach allows the club to strengthen the defensive department while managing the investment flexibly. Roma had already tried to sign Balerdi during last summer's transfer window, but Marseille decided to keep him. Now, a year later, the capital club has renewed its interest with a new formal offer.
Why Roma are targeting Balerdi
Leonardo Balerdi is a 27-year-old centre-back, possessing good physicality and experience in competitive leagues like Ligue 1. His profile has been positively evaluated by Roma's technical staff, who are seeking a reinforcement for the back line. His knowledge of European football and his technical characteristics make him a suitable candidate to integrate quickly into De Rossi's system. The team, after the first matchday, has shown defensive solidity by keeping a clean sheet, but the search for an additional element is considered strategic to face a busy schedule of commitments.
What are the terms of the deal
Roma's offer involves a loan for the 2026/2027 season. The buy option, whose value has not been disclosed, would be conditional on achieving preset objectives, likely related to the player's and the team's performances. This type of formula has become common in the modern transfer market, allowing the buying club to test the player before a definitive financial commitment. Marseille will evaluate the proposal, considering their own roster needs and market alternatives. The negotiation is therefore in a delicate and not yet concluded phase.
The team's context in Serie A
The move for Balerdi comes at a time of great confidence for AS Roma. The team started the league campaign with a 4-0 victory, placing first in the standings with 3 points. The goal tally is 4 scored and 0 conceded, for a goal difference of +4. This positive start provides a favourable context for any new arrivals, who could help maintain this momentum. The next fixture is an away match against Lecce, currently fourth in the table, scheduled for August 31st. Fans can follow the full updated schedule on our fixtures page.
What happens next
Everything now depends on Olympique Marseille's response. Roma's management awaits a signal from France to understand if there is room to negotiate and close the deal before the transfer window shuts. Meanwhile, attention also shifts to the pitch, with preparations for the match against Lecce. A defensive reinforcement like Balerdi could be valuable for the dual challenge of the league and European cups. To monitor the evolution of the squad, supporters can check the squad page. The position at the top of Serie A, viewable in the standings, demonstrates this group's potential and justifies the efforts to strengthen it further.
