Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that a deal is “almost done” for Bournemouth to sign Gaetano Castrovilli.
Bournemouth to Sign Fiorentina Midfielder Gaetano Castrovilli
Romano Confirms Gaetano Castrovilli Close to Bournemouth Transfer
Romano has confirmed that final details are being agreed upon, with a £10 million fee (and £2 million in add-ons) being paid to Fiorentina for the midfielder. Castrovilli has “accepted the move,” with personal terms agreed.
A Replacement for Jefferson Lerma?
After Crystal Palace picked up Jefferson Lerma on a free transfer at the end of last season, Bournemouth fans have been calling out for a new defensive midfielder. The team had looked slightly unstable in midfield, with Atalanta cutting through the centre during their pre-season friendly. However, Bournemouth fans may be disappointed as Castrovilli appears to be more advanced. Whilst the Italian can play as a defensive midfielder and has done previously, he prefers a more advanced role.
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At Fiorentina, he had been playing alongside Manchester United target Sofyan Amrabat – who would easily cover Castrovilli during his forward runs. The midfielder enjoys progressive carries and dribbling around opposition players in a free-roaming role. Bournemouth will therefore still need to sign a new defensive midfielder to cover for the Italian as he ventures forwards in attack. However, Cherries fans should still be pleased with the signing as the player is an exciting talent who can take them to the next level.
How Will This Affect Bournemouth’s Transfer Plans?
Bournemouth have been closely linked with Bristol City’s Alex Scott, with the club submitting a £15 million bid, which was rejected. Reports surfaced that the Cherries were in advanced talks over a £25 million deal for Scott. However, Castrovilli and Scott appear to have similar profiles, being box-to-box midfielders who are both ball winners and make progressive carries.
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Perhaps Bournemouth were put off by the hefty asking price for a player who’s never played in the top flight and have now pulled out of the race for the 19-year-old. In the opposite direction, Bournemouth may look to offload some players after this transfer. Players like Jaidon Anthony and Ryan Christie will surely struggle to get into the starting line-up ahead of new signings such as Dango Ouatarra, Hamed Traore, and Justin Kluivert. Castrovilli will provide even more competition in the squad, and therefore it looks likely – some fringe players may depart from the club.
Photo Credit: Andy Jones, licensed to Last Word on Sports
