The transfer market has been relatively quiet so far this summer for four of Europe’s “big five” football leagues. To the disappointment of many fans, this summer’s transfer window hasn’t lived up to the excitement we’ve come to expect from the best leagues in Europe’s most popular sport.
Italy’s Serie A, Spain’s La Liga, Germany’s Bundesliga, and France’s Ligue 1 haven’t completed anywhere near the number of headline-grabbing transfer deals as their Premier League counterparts. Although not splashy, several clubs outside the UK have conducted sound business so far this summer—including AS Roma.
Houssem Aouar
The first acquisition of the summer, the Giallorossi made a big addition to their squad with the addition of talented midfielder Houssem Aouar. The French playmaker, known for his technical skills, creativity, and vision, joined the capital club from boyhood club Lyon—with whom he spent nearly fifteen years and won Player of the Year three times (2016, 2017 and 2018).
Aouar brings a much-needed injection of creativity and guile to Jose Mourinho’s midfield. He’ll provide a vital link between the midfield and the attacking line—a trait the team desperately lacked last season. While many eagerly await to see the midfielder play in his first official match for Roma, supporters can help pass the time with sports-based games and claim 25 free bonus in registration until Serie A kicks-off next month.
Evan Ndicka
Jose Mourinho got a major upgrade to his defensive line with the signing of highly-rated defender Evan Ndicka. The young France-born central defender known for his physical presence, defensive prowess, and composure on the ball, joined the Giallorossi from Eintracht Frankfurt.
With the addition of Ndicka, Roma strengthens its defensive foundation, which already features a solid core that includes Chris Smalling and Gianluca Mancini. Ndicka’s physical attributes, combined with his technical ability, will provide Roma with versatility and depth in their defensive options.
Given Mourinho shifted to back three halfway through the 2021/22 season, Ndicka also provides the Special One with something he didn’t have before: a left-footed defender. His ability to play as a left-sided central defender adds further flexibility to the team’s defensive formations.
Rasmus Kristensen
AS Roma’s latest transfer acquisition, right back Rasmus Kristensen, 26, completed his transfer switch to the club last week after his move from Leeds United was finalised.
Roma jumped at the chance to acquire the Danish international once it became clear he did not want to remain with Leeds in the Championship following their relegation last season. Kristensen brings a solid overall skillset with pace, defensive solidity, and attacking contributions.
He collected an impressive 3 goals and 1 assist in 26 league appearances last season—providing the Giallorossi with a very solid alternative to Zeki Celik on the right flank.
Summary
While they may not make front-page news, Roma’s astute transfer dealings so far this summer means they’ll enter the news season with several high-quality talents. All three of their new additions have a wealth of experience in Europe’s highest echelons yet are still young and in the prime of their careers.
They possess the potential to play crucial roles in Roma’s quest for success under Jose Mourinho. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on them as they aim to make a lasting impact and contribute to the team’s ambitions.
