Jan Ziolkowski Chooses AS Roma After Rejecting Other Clubs

Jan Ziolkowski, a young defender from Legia Warsaw, is joining AS Roma. He turned down offers from other European teams, including Borussia Mönchengladbach. The 20-year-old will sign a contract with the Italian club soon, strengthening Roma’s defense.

WHAT HAPPENED?

In the last 24 hours, two clubs tried to beat Roma to Ziolkowski’s signing. Borussia Monchengladbach and Udinese made offers, but Ziolkowski only wanted to join AS Roma. Roma and Legia Warsaw have agreed on a €6 million deal, plus €1.5 million in bonuses. Ziolkowski will travel to Rome for medical tests. His contract will run until 2030, as confirmed by recent updates. He will be Roma’s second defensive signing this summer after Daniele Ghilardi from Hellas Verona.

WHY ROMA AND WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Ziolkowski’s choice was influenced by new Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Gasperini is rebuilding the defense and uses a three-man backline, giving the Polish defender a chance to play right away. Roma finished fifth in Serie A last season and need defensive help, as they plan to challenge for the title. Ziolkowski’s current club, Legia Warsaw, finished far from the title contention in the Polish Ekstraklasa and missed the Champions League qualifiers. Ziolkowski’s move shows Roma’s trust in young talent as they aim to return to Italy’s top four.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR ZIOLKOWSKI AND ROMA?

Ziolkowski will complete his medical tests in Rome in 48 hours and sign his contract. Roma want him to adapt quickly as they have their Serie A opener against Bologna. Roma are preparing for the new season, aiming for Champions League qualification after finishing behind fourth-placed Juventus last time. Their next opponent, Bologna, finished ninth last year, also looking to improve. Roma fans will watch to see if the young defender can solidify their defense soon.