Bologna’s Champions League Ambitions: Italiano’s Transfer Targets and the Hummels Dream

Bologna, under new manager Vincenzo Italiano, have  begun preparations for their surprising Champions League campaign following an impressive 2023/24 season led by Thiago Motta. The squad is still taking shape, with several national team players absent due to Euro 2024 commitments. However, the club has already secured two defensive reinforcements: Miranda from Real Betis for the left flank and Holm from Spezia (on loan at Atalanta last season) for the right.

The departure of key players Joshua Zirkzee and Riccardo Calafiori necessitates significant replacements, and Calciomercato outline Bologna’s transfer targets by position:

Defense:

With Calafiori likely heading to the Premier League, Bologna has been linked with Mats Hummels, recently released by Borussia Dortmund. However, Hummels’ demand for a two-year contract worth €3 million per season exceeds Bologna’s financial parameters. More realistic targets include Udinese’s Slovene defender Bijol and Lecce’s Croatian center-back Pongracic.

Midfield:

To complement the Swiss duo of Freuler and Aebischer, Italiano is seeking creative and dynamic midfielders. Sassuolo’s Thorstvedt and a potential return to Italy for Casadei are being considered. The latter could form an intriguing partnership with Fabbian, helping to offset Ferguson’s injury. Other midfield targets include Belgium’s Mandela Keita from Antwerp and Slovenia’s Cerin from Panathinaikos.

Attack:

With Zirkzee’s departure, Bologna needs a new striker. After missing out on Pavlidis, who chose Benfica, the club is eyeing Fotis Ioannidis from Panathinaikos. Boulaye Dia, previously linked with Fiorentina, is another option as he looks to leave Salernitana. The versatile Kouamé, a favorite of Italiano from his time at Fiorentina, remains a possibility for the wide attacking positions.