AS Roma completing the signing of former Torino forward and captain Andrea Belotti this past week has provided Jose Mourinho with yet more firepower up top for this Serie A season, joining an already-stacked frontline that includes Tammy Abraham, Paulo Dybala and Nicolo Zaniolo.
The 28-year-old left Toro as a free agent after scoring 100 goals in 232 Serie A appearances over seven seasons and his contract with the Giallorossi will be extended until June 2025 if he meets certain performance-based criteria.
Belotti was announced as a new signing on Sunday and the Italy international revealed his delight in joining Roma in his press conference.
“Roma’s progress and ambition in recent times has been clear for all to see, and both elements have had a big influence on me,” Belotti said.
“At this point in my career I want to continue to improve, day after day, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to do so representing this club.
“I now cannot wait to hear the club anthem at the stadium, in front of all our fans.”
Belotti will wear the No.11 on the back of his Roma jersey.
AS Roma continue summer evolution with Belotti signing
It has been an active transfer window for Roma as the Friedkin family bring in reinforcements to satisfy coach Jose Mourinho.
After finishing sixth in Serie A and winning the Europa Conference League in 2021/22, the Giallorossi will be looking to climb up the table and earn a Champions League spot at the very least.
Roma have offloaded midfielders Sergio Oliveira and Jordan Veretout, while goalkeepers like Robin Olsen and Pau Lopez were bought outright by Aston Villa and Marseille respectively, and attacking midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan joined Inter on a free transfer.
Argentinian forward Paulo Dybala arrived on a free transfer from Juventus while Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic arrived as a free agent from Manchester United. Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum has joined on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, and Turkish defender Zeki Celik has also arrived from Ligue 1, having played for four seasons at Lille.
Belotti will give Mourinho the opportunity to rotate Tammy Abraham and the Italian forward, or give him other tactical options.
After battling with injuries for the last couple of seasons in a Torino side lacking in ambition, joining Roma can give Belotti the chance to regain his fitness fully and also demonstrate his qualities in European ties.
When fit and available, Belotti is a guarantee in Serie A. His tirelessness is something that Mourinho will undoubtedly enjoy, and the Italy forward should bring a lot to the Giallorossi.
