Balerdi set to join Roma from Marseille for €16m
Quick summary
Roma are expecting Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi to arrive today for a total deal worth €16 million, as negotiations near completion.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceMore details on Roma’s deal for Olympique Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi, on loan for €1m with option to buy that can become an obligation for up to €15m, as he should arrive today.
According to Il Tempo reporter Filippo Biafora , the time of arrival for his flight at Ciampino Airport in the Eternal City is 17.40 local time (16.40 in the UK).
He will then undergo his medical tests over the weekend , and should complete the transfer if all goes well.
Balerdi travelling for Roma medical MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Leonardo Balerdi of Olympique de Marseille reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Olympique de Marseille and Newcastle United FC at Stade de Marseille on November 25, 2025 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) L’Equipe had suggested Balerdi was given permission to travel while the two clubs were still trying to work out the precise details of the move, confirming they are in a rush to see it through.
Il Tempo report that Roma will pay €1m for the one-season loan, and the option to buy can become an obligation if certain conditions are met.
HAMBURG, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 15: Leonardo Balerdi of Marseille looks dejected following the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Knockout Round Play-offs First Leg match between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Olympique de Marseille at Volksparkstadion on February 15, 2024 in Hamburg, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images) Those conditions include the number of appearances he makes, the minutes played, and whether Roma qualify for European competition.
The option to buy can vary between €12m to €15m, depending on bonuses.
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What happened
Roma are closing in on the signing of Marseille centre-back Leonardo Balerdi, with the Italian club expecting the Argentine defender to arrive today to finalize the move. The total package is reported at €16 million. Balerdi, 26, has been a regular starter for Marseille in Ligue 1 and would add depth and competition to Roma's backline as they prepare for the new season.
Chance analysis
Balerdi represents a significant addition to Roma's defensive options. Having been a reliable starter in Ligue 1, he brings top-flight European experience and physicality to the Giallorossi's backline. For Marseille, the departure of a key defender signals a rebuilding phase, while Roma continue to reshape their squad ahead of the Serie A campaign.
Roma's defence is strengthened with an experienced Ligue 1 centre-back, while Marseille lose a key defender for €16m.