Bologna is moving swiftly in the winter transfer window, having reportedly finalized their first major acquisition: central defender Juan Pablo Freytes. The Argentine player, currently on the books at Fluminense, is nearing a highly anticipated move to Serie A.
According to Italian reports, the deal was substantially closed by the Bologna management team, led by the tandem of Sartori and Di Vaio, receiving the final endorsement from CEO Fenucci. An agreement on personal terms—covering both contract duration and salary—has been reached with the player. Only minor administrative details pertaining to performance bonuses remain to be finalized between the two clubs. The transfer fee for the defender is expected to settle around €8 million.
These minor negotiations are not a cause for concern for the Bologna hierarchy, especially since the Argentine has already given his complete approval, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to play in the Italian league. This imminent signing is the culmination of long-term interest from the *Rossoblù* club, which has been monitoring Freytes since his earlier days playing in Argentina, primarily for Newell’s Old Boys. However, the decisive factor was his impressive performance during the Club World Cup while representing Fluminense last summer.
It is crucial to note that Freytes’ incoming transfer is an independent operation and is not dependent on any immediate player departures. While there are ongoing discussions regarding the potential sale of defender Nicolò Casale, that potential exit is proceeding on its own separate path.
Should Casale ultimately leave, Bologna is expected to look beyond the Freytes signing and bring in another promising young prospect. This strategy aims to provide Vincenzo Italiano with an additional developmental player ready to fully integrate into the squad by the start of the next championship season.
Mark Thompson
