Transfer Centre

Transfer news and rumours: Roma want Watford man, Ruiz to Girona, Belotti move

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 23 June 2024

Sports Mole rounds up the latest transfer news and rumours, including Girona being keen on Abel Ruiz and Roma forward Andrea Belotti joining a different Italian club.

Roma are looking to add to their squad with Watford midfielder Ismael Kone, according to journalist Matteo Moretto.

The Canada international has just completed a season in the Championship, making 28 starts and 14 substitute outings in the second tier of English football.

Kone is tied to a long-term contract at Vicarage Road, which has another three years left to run, and the assumption has been that the 22-year-old may, at some point transfer to another Pozzo Family club in Udinese.

Instead, it appears that Roma are ready to make an effort to bring in Kone, the Serie A club said to be one of several clubs interested in acquiring his services.

In December 2022, Watford spent in the region of €10m on the player, making it plausible that the Hornets will want at least that amount to give the green light to a sale.

Braga forward Abel Ruiz in action in February 2024. © Reuters

Girona pushing for Ruiz signing

Girona are reportedly on the verge of securing a deal for Braga forward Abel Ruiz.

On the back of Champions League qualification, the Spanish side are looking to strengthen their squad and they have already signed defender Ladislav Krejci.

However, they have now seemingly switched their attention to the final third, aware that they will not have Savio's services for next season.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Girona are closing in on the transfer of Ruiz, who started his career with Barcelona.

The 24-year-old only chipped in with six goals and two assists in 30 Primeira Liga fixtures during 2023-24, yet he is being provided with the chance to kick-start his career back in his homeland.

While a potential fee is not mentioned, Ruiz is already said to have agreed personal terms ahead of the move.

Roma's Andrea Belotti in action with Bayer Leverkusen's Exequiel Palacios on May 18, 2023 © Reuters

Andrea Belotti on the move

Meanwhile, Como are seemingly about to mark their promotion to Serie A with the high-profile addition of Roma forward Andrea Belotti.

Osian Roberts's side, as it stands, have only converted three loans into permanent deals, but they are expected to now go to work to strengthen their squad.

As per Romano, a deal worth in the region of €4.5m (£3.8m) is in the works with the forward seemingly prepared to make the switch.

Belotti's stock has dropped in recent seasons, to the extent where Roma were prepared to loan him to Fiorentina for the second half of the campaign.

The 30-year-old scored just four goals in 24 appearances, but he will get the chance to revive his career with the top-flight newcomers.