Leonardo Balerdi was announced as the new signing for Roma

Italian football has added another Argentine to its ranks. This Sunday, Leonardo Balerdi was officially presented as the new player of the Roma, after ending his time at Olympique de Marseille and finalizing his arrival at the capital's team.

According to information provided by the Italian club, the 27-year-old defender, who will wear jersey No. 26, has joined on loan for the entire season, with a purchase option included in the agreement. According to the conditions established between both clubs, that clause could become mandatory if the player meets certain objectives.

For its part, the French club dedicated a farewell message on its social media and particularly highlighted the bond he built with the institution over six seasons. "After six seasons at Olympique, Leonardo Balerdi joins AS Roma on loan with an option to buy," the club announced. It then recalled his growth during his stay: "Arriving in Marseille at just 21 years old, Leo has grown defending the club's colors, always wearing the jersey with passion and a deep attachment, both in good times and bad".

It is worth noting that Balerdi also became the team captain and left an important mark in the locker room. Therefore, Olympique concluded its farewell with a recognition of his commitment: "The club thanks its former captain for his unconditional commitment and wishes him the best for this season with his new colors".

In this way, the Argentine will begin a new chapter at the Loba, where he will seek to earn a place in the defense and gain prominence in a team that already includes four compatriots: Paulo Dybala, Matías Soulé, and the recently added Nahuel Molina and Santiago Castro.

Balerdi's numbers at Olympique de Marseille

In his six seasons wearing the French team's jersey, the former Boca player played 15,507 minutes, spread over 200 matches, in which he scored 6 goals, provided 3 assists, and received 47 yellow cards and 6 red cards, 3 for double bookings and 3 direct.