Roma add Argentine defender Balerdi as Argentine core expands

While Roma rushes to finalise signings in the closing days of the transfer window, Argentine defender Leonardo Balerdi, who missed the Mundial through a late injury, has completed his move to the capital club, taking shirt number 26 after a season‑long loan from Olympique de Marsella.

Loan deal with purchase option

Leonardo Balerdi signed for la Loba' and will wear the number 26 shirt. The deal is a season‑long loan from Olympique de Marsella that includes an option for Roma to purchase the defender outright.

Argentine contingent expands

His arrival adds to the Argentine contingent already established in the capital. He will line up alongside Nahuel Molina, Lucero, Santiago Castro, Paulo Dybala and Matías Soulé.

The former Boca player has already been listed in the squad for Monday's Serie A clash with Lecce. Roma will rely on the expanded Argentine group as they prepare for the match.

Roma are set to compete in the UEFA Champions League group stage this season. They opened their domestic campaign with a convincing victory over Fiorentina.

The contrast between Roma's aggressive recruitment drive and Balerdi's personal disappointment at missing the Mundial highlights the club's focus on building an Argentine core to bolster its European ambitions.