Andrea Belotti explains why he rejected other options to join Roma with an unusual contract. ‘The club’s ambition and growth are clear for all to see and that was an incredible draw.’
The former Torino striker was a free agent when his contract expired on June 30, but waited until today to put pen to paper, three rounds into the Serie A season.
He had offers from the likes of Monza, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Galatasaray, though none could compare to the Stadio Olimpico.
“Roma’s ambition and growth are clear for all to see and that was an incredible draw for me,” Belotti told the official club website.
“At this stage of my career, I want to continue improving myself, day after day, and I am happy to be able to do that with this new jersey.
“Now I can’t wait to hear the anthem at the stadium, in front of our fans.”
The statement from Roma confirms this is a rather unusual contract, as it only runs to June 2023.
There is an option to extend for a further two seasons only if specific sporting targets are achieved.
Belotti scored 106 goals in 270 Serie A games and some of those were in the Palermo jersey, where his teammate was Paulo Dybala.
Il Gallo will wear the Number 11 jersey at the Stadio Olimpico.
“Andrea is one of the most prolific strikers in Serie A, so with him we further raise the level of our forward line,” said general manager Tiago Pinto.
“His determination in choosing Roma really impressed us and we are very happy to begin this new adventure with him.”