Ciro Immobile Returns to Serie A with Bologna

Bologna have signed Ciro Immobile on a free transfer. The 35-year-old striker, who was once Lazio’s captain, is joining after ending his contract with Besiktas. Immobile has agreed to a one-year deal with the option to stay for another year.

According to a previous report, he has agreed to a one-year deal with an option for another season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Immobile spent the second half of last season in Turkey with Besiktas. He joined Bologna after finalizing his departure from Istanbul earlier today. He has agreed to a one-year deal with the option to extend for another year. His salary will reportedly be around €2-2.5 million for the season. This move signals a return to Italy’s top flight for the ex-Lazio captain, who enjoyed a prolific spell with the Rome giants. Immobile netted 19 goals in 41 matches last season between Lazio and Besiktas, demonstrating that he remains effective in front of goal despite his advancing years.

BOLOGNA’S STRATEGY AND SEASON OUTLOOK

Bologna had a historic campaign last year, finishing ninth in Serie A but winning a historical Coppa Italia to qualify for the UEFA Champions League in what many considered a Cinderella story. Bologna secured a Champions League spot and won the Coppa Italia last season

According to a previous report, they secured a Champions League spot last season.

The Rossoblu wanted to strengthen the squad as they prepare to battle on three fronts next season, with several players expected to leave the club. Last season’s Serie A top scorer Arkadiusz Milik is expected to depart soon, with Immobile set to replace him in the lineup. Immobile is the club’s first significant recruit of the summer, and they are also on the verge of announcing Federico Bernardeschi’s signing, the former Toronto FC winger and Euro 2020 winner.

According to a previous report, Bologna is set to sign Federico Bernardeschi.

The capture of two high-profile players will increase expectations ahead of the new season, which could be Bologna’s most eventful campaign in recent memory.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR IMMOBILE AND BOLOGNA?

Bologna’s first competitive match of the 2025-26 season will be in the Champions League qualifiers, followed by their opening Serie A fixture. With Champions League football secured, they find themselves competing with traditional heavyweights just above them, like Juventus and Inter, while keeping an eye on up-and-coming teams below. Immobile, with his vast experience and proven track record in Serie A, is expected to play a key role both on and off the pitch as Bologna prepare for their most ambitious season in recent history. All eyes will be on how quickly he adapts and whether he can help Bologna maintain or even surpass last year’s remarkable achievements.