Roma have reached an agreement with Bologna for the transfer of Argentine striker Santiago Castro, with the deal valued at €35 million including bonuses. The framework deal was struck overnight, comprising €30 million fixed fee plus €5 million in performance-related add-ons. The 22-year-old, who had already given his approval to head coach Gian Piero Gasperini two days ago, is expected to arrive at Ciampino airport between this evening and tomorrow to join the squad for their pre-season training camp in Wales.
Castro becomes Roma's first signing under Gasperini, following failed attempts to land Mason Greenwood and Crysencio Summerville earlier in the window. The Argentine forward, nicknamed "El Torito" for his resemblance to Lautaro Martinez, has committed to a contract worth more than double the €1 million net he was earning at Bologna.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, sporting director D'Amico pivoted decisively to Castro after Club Brugge demanded what the club considered prohibitive fees for Danish striker Andreas Tresoldi. Gasperini sees the Argentine as a deputy for Donyell Malen, but also capable of playing alongside the Dutchman in a two-striker formation, given Castro's experience as a second striker or left winger during his time at Velez Sarsfield.
