Roma Close on Castro for €35m: Dovbyk Targeted by Bologna, Rashford Too Expensive

FolioPitch.com – 26 July 2026 | In a dramatic turn of events in the Serie A transfer market, Roma close on Castro for €35m Dovbyk targeted by Bologna Rashford too expensive. The Giallorossi have intensified their search for attacking reinforcements, and after missing out on several key targets, they are now on the verge of securing a major deal for Bologna striker Santiago Castro. The negotiations between Roma and Bologna have reached an advanced stage, with the proposed transfer fee set at €35 million, including bonuses and a percentage of a future sale. Meanwhile, Artem Dovbyk is reportedly heading to Bologna on loan, and Marcus Rashford‘s enormous wages at Manchester United have ruled out any potential move to the Italian capital.

The transfer saga, centered around Roma close on Castro for €35m Dovbyk targeted by Bologna Rashford too expensive, has dominated Italian football headlines. Roma have been desperate to bolster their attack after a frustrating window where they failed to land Mason Greenwood, Crysencio Summerville, and Nicolò Tresoldi. Now, the club is pushing hard to bring in the 21-year-old Argentine, who has impressed with his versatility and goal-scoring ability since joining Bologna from Velez Sarsfield in January 2024 for €13.2 million.

According to multiple reports from Sky Sport Italia and Sportitalia, personal terms for Castro are not expected to be a hurdle. The striker, who turns 22 in September, can play across the front line, making him an attractive option for Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Castro’s arrival could provide Roma with the attacking spark they have lacked, as they aim to climb the Serie A standings and compete in European competitions.

As part of the broader transfer negotiations, Bologna is also targeting Artem Dovbyk. The Ukrainian striker, who currently plays for Roma, is expected to move to Bologna on loan. This deal is separate from the Castro transfer but is being discussed in parallel. Bologna’s willingness to loan Dovbyk rather than sell him outright has made the arrangement more palatable for both clubs. Roma had previously considered sending Dovbyk to Genoa, but the Rossoblu’s interest from Bologna has opened a new avenue.

The situation with Marcus Rashford highlights the financial constraints Roma face. The Manchester United winger, who spent the latter part of last season on loan at Barcelona, was proposed to Roma by intermediaries, according to Matteo Moretto of Fabrizio Romano’s team. However, Rashford’s current wages at Old Trafford are prohibitively high, making any permanent or loan deal impossible for Roma. This reinforces the narrative that Roma close on Castro for €35m Dovbyk targeted by Bologna Rashford too expensive is the most viable path forward.

The €35 million price tag for Castro reflects his growing reputation in Serie A. Since joining Bologna, he has scored crucial goals, including strikes in the Coppa Italia and Europa League. His ability to play as a central striker or a winger gives Roma tactical flexibility. Gasperini, known for his fluid attacking systems, will likely utilize Castro’s adaptability. Moreover, the inclusion of Dovbyk in the equation allows Bologna to fill the void left by Castro’s departure without significant financial outlay.

The keyword Roma close on Castro for €35m Dovbyk targeted by Bologna Rashford too expensive appears not only in the transfer discussions but also in the broader context of Roma’s strategic planning. The club has been proactive in the market, but financial fair play constraints limit their spending. By structuring the Castro deal with bonuses and a future sell-on clause, Roma can spread the cost. Similarly, the loan move for Dovbyk keeps expenses low while providing Bologna with a proven Serie A striker.

For Bologna, losing Castro would be a blow, but the potential acquisition of Dovbyk softens the impact. The Ukrainian international has experience in the Italian league and could thrive under Bologna’s system. Meanwhile, Rashford’s absence from consideration underscores the financial reality for many Italian clubs, which struggle to compete with Premier League wages. Thus, the story of Roma close on Castro for €35m Dovbyk targeted by Bologna Rashford too expensive encapsulates the current dynamics of the transfer window.

In conclusion, Roma appear set to finalize a €35 million deal for Santiago Castro, while Bologna turn their attention to Artem Dovbyk on loan, and Marcus Rashford remains out of reach due to his high salary. This trio of moves exemplifies the strategic trading between Serie A clubs, balancing ambition with financial prudence. If completed, the Castro signing could prove transformative for Roma, while Dovbyk’s loan to Bologna might rejuvenate his career. The market continues to evolve, but for now, the narrative is clear: Roma close on Castro for €35m, Dovbyk targeted by Bologna, and Rashford too expensive.