After targeting Arsenal defender Sokratis, Italian side Genoa are now looking to strengthen their squad with Marseille midfielder Kevin Strootman, who could return to Italy on loan for six months. The club’s president, Enrico Preziosi, has confirmed that they are on the way to closing a deal.
The Marseille midfielder has struggled for form in Ligue 1 and is no longer part of manager Andre Villas-Boas‘ plans. Genoa sit in 17th place and are looking to make the most of the transfer window to avoid relegation.
Strootman will see this move, if it was to happen, as an opportunity to regain form and prove himself.
Genoa Close to Signing Strootman
President Preziosi ‘Very Satisfied’
Genoa president Enrico Preziosi said of the potential arrival of Kevin Strootman: “We are on the road to close, only the visits are missing. I am very satisfied, especially because I know the man.”
League-Proven
Genoa will be hoping that Strootman’s experience in Serie A will resolve their issues in midfield. The 30-year-old has proven himself in the league with a six-season spell at Roma. During his time, the Dutch midfielder counts 131 appearances for Roma. He was instrumental to their 2nd place finish in 2016/17, featuring 33 times in the league.
Strootman’s career has been riddled by injuries, however, keeping him from playing consistently. An ACL injury in 2014 kept him from the field for the whole season. Ever since the midfielder has battled with that same injury. This move could prove to be a gamble for Genoa if he fails to stay fit.
If healthy, Kevin Strootman can provide energy, technical ability and experience to Genoa’s midfield. The Dutchman has earned 45 caps for his country and has played in numerous Champions League clashes. Strootman could therefore become a leader for Genoa as well as a footballing asset. The Italian club will be looking to count on him for the second half of the season.
Strootman No Longer Needed at Marseille
Strootman has not had the impact anticipated since he signed for Marseille back in 2018. In his three seasons at the club, the midfielder featured 73 times in all competitions, netting three goals in the process. His irregularity has removed him from Villas-Boas’ plans, now more often than not only featuring as a substitute. Marseille’s coach is unsurprisingly open to the loan, even more so considering the midfielder’s big salary.
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