AS Roma and Udinese have both submitted formal offers to sign 20-year-old Polish defender Jan Ziolkowski from Legia Warsaw, according to Fabrizio Romano’s latest Serie A transfer news.
The Italian sides are going head-to-head in what could become one of the quieter yet more significant youth-focused deals of the summer.
While Roma continue to look for attacking reinforcements, they’re also determined to strengthen their defense following the recent arrival of Daniele Ghilardi.
Ziolkowski, who has developed through Legia’s academy system, is now a top target. Talks between Legia and the two clubs are ongoing, with both proposals being reviewed as of Monday.
Who is Jan Ziolkowski?
Born in 2005, Jan Ziolkowski is widely considered one of the top young talents in Polish football. A composed and athletic central defender, he featured in 28 matches last season in the Ekstraklasa, even scoring twice and adding two assists.
Ziolkowski has also earned five caps for Poland’s U-21 team and is on the cusp of becoming a senior international. His contract at Legia runs until 2028, and he’s currently valued at around €4 million.
Given his age and profile, it’s no surprise that Roma and Udinese are both pushing to bring him to Serie A before his price rises further.
For Roma, Ziolkowski would represent a long-term investment as they reshape their back line. For Udinese, who have a strong track record of developing young defenders, he fits the club’s recruitment model perfectly.
Serie A Transfer News: Who Will Sign Ziolkowski?
Legia Warsaw are in no rush to sell but are open to negotiating a deal that includes add-ons or a sell-on clause. With two clubs already submitting bids, a decision could come quickly – especially if one side sweetens their offer.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma are reportedly prioritizing versatility and youth across the pitch this summer.
With Evan Ferguson and Wesley already secured, and a potential move for Brighton’s Julio Enciso still in play, adding Ziolkowski to their project would align with the broader strategy of investing in emerging talent.
Off the pitch, Roma remain among the early favorites to push for a Champions League spot next season, according to offshore betting sites.
That growing optimism is backed up by their shrewd moves in the transfer market, where they’re now focused on bringing in high-upside players such as Ziolkowski.
Expect further developments in the coming days, as both clubs push to secure the promising Polish defender ahead of the new season.
