Rome Transfer Market: Midfield Signing Sealed, El Aynaoui Set to Leave

Roma is shaking up its midfield: with three days left before the transfer window closes, the Giallorossi are revamping their midfield. Marten De Roon is on his way from Atalanta, leaving Bergamo following the arrival of Franck Kessié—a long-time Roma target—at the Nerazzurri.

The Dutch player, who requested a transfer in recent days, will join for approximately one million euros plus bonuses: he will soon be in Rome for the customary medical exams and to sign his contract. His arrival will trigger the departure of Neil El Aynaoui, who has decided to pursue his career in the Bundesliga. The Moroccan international will, in fact, move to Leipzig on a paid loan for 4 million euros, with an option to buy set at 25 million. The player will thus leave Rome after just one season.

A favorite of Gian Piero Gasperini since his days at Atalanta, the 35-year-old De Roon can play in multiple midfield positions. Having come up through the ranks at Sparta Rotterdam, he moved to Atalanta in 2015 and, after a season at Middlesbrough, became an undisputed starter for the Dea, winning the Europa League in 2024.

De Roon was one of four Serie A players called up by Ronald Koeman for the 2026 World Cup, held that summer in Canada, Mexico, and the United States; he played in the round of 16 match against Morocco. Wearing the Oranje jersey, the midfielder has made 44 appearances and scored one goal for the national team, establishing himself as a key player on the squad.