AS Roma Close to Signing Jan Ziolkowski After Defender Rejects Borussia Mönchengladbach

AS Roma are about to sign Jan Ziolkowski from Legia Warsaw. The transfer could be completed within 24 hours, as Ziolkowski has expressed a strong desire to join the Italian club.

WHAT HAPPENED?

AS Roma are in advanced talks with Legia Warsaw about signing Polish defender Jan Ziolkowski. The 20-year-old has turned down an offer from Borussia Mönchengladbach and made it clear he wants to move to Serie A. Negotiations between the two clubs remain focused on transfer fee, with Roma trying to reduce Legia’s €6 million asking price. Roma were joined by Udinese and Lyon in the race for Ziolkowski, but the player’s desire to move to the Italian capital saw them take the lead.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Ziolkowski is considered one of Poland’s brightest young talents. The defender recently signed a contract extension with Legia, keeping him at the club until May 2028. He progressed through the academy ranks before reaching the first team in January 2023. He is expected to follow Daniele Ghilardi to the Stadio Olimpico, with Roma keen to bolster their defence under new boss Gian Piero Gasperini.

WHAT NEXT FOR AS ROMA?

The Serie A side will want to complete the deal for Ziolkowski in the next 24 hours to register him in time for their season opener against Bologna. The Gialorossi finished fifth in the league last term, but Gasperini’s men have designs on a top-four finish and Champions League return after finishing two points outside the qualification places last time out. Winning the race for the highly-rated Ziolkowski would be a huge coup as Borussia Monchengladbach now have to move on to alternative options.