Jonathan Rowe Nears Exit From Marseille as Bologna and Roma Step Up Transfer Battle

Jonathan Rowe’s future at Olympique Marseille could be decided soon, with Bologna making an official bid and both Roma and Premier League clubs in talks for the talented winger.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Marseille have made English winger Jonathan Rowe available for transfer, setting an asking price of around €20 million. Talks with his representatives will take place today as several clubs, notably Bologna, have already sent formal offers for the player. Roma and top Premier League sides have also approached Rowe’s camp, making the competition for his signature intense as the summer window heats up.

WHY THE INTEREST IS SO HIGH

Rowe, 22, moved to Marseille from Norwich City earlier this year for just under €15 million. Last season, he featured in 28 Ligue 1 games, notching three goals and three assists. He also played a vital role for England’s U21 team, winning the European Championship this summer. Marseille recently signed Angel Gomes to strengthen their attack, which has made Rowe’s position less certain. The French side is reportedly keen to sell Rowe to help fund other moves, including a possible pursuit of Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez.

MARSEILLE, BOLOGNA, AND ROMA: SEASON CONTEXT

Marseille finished 2nd in Ligue 1 last season, qualifying for the Champions League after missing the competition for many years. Bologna, who are battling for a European place in Serie A after winning the Coppa Italia last season, are eager to bolster their attack for the coming campaign. AS Roma, who ended last season in 5th place and are building under new coach Gian Piero Gasperini, see Rowe as a strong alternative to Jadon Sancho. Marseille’s next fixture is against Paris FC, who were just promoted from the Ligue 2 last year. Bologna’s next game is against Roma, the other team interested in the English winger’s services. Each of these clubs is fighting to strengthen their squads with Rowe’s potential arrival before the league action fully gets underway.