Serie A side Bologna are on the verge of completing the signing of Nigerian-born defender Rahim Alhassane from Spanish club Real Oviedo, with negotiations between the two clubs now in the final stages, Trybal News reports.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, discussions have progressed positively and the deal is now close to being finalized, with only the final formalities remaining before an agreement is reached.
The proposed arrangement will see the 24-year-old left-back join Bologna on an initial loan deal that includes an obligation to buy for €3.5 million, underlining the Italian club’s intent to strengthen its defensive options ahead of the new season.
Bologna have moved decisively during the summer transfer window and view Alhassane as an important addition to provide depth and competition on the left side of defence. The Rossoblù currently rely heavily on first-choice left-back Juan Miranda, making reinforcement in the position a priority.
The agreed fee represents a significant investment for a player whose estimated market valuation is believed to be between €1.5 million and €1.8 million, highlighting Bologna’s confidence in Alhassane’s potential and long-term value.
Alhassane joined Real Oviedo in July 2024 on a three-year contract running until June 2028, placing the Spanish club in a strong negotiating position throughout discussions. Reports earlier in July suggested Oviedo were seeking a figure closer to €4 million, making the current €3.5 million package a favourable outcome for the Serie A side.
Born in Abuja, Nigeria, on January 1, 2002, Alhassane holds Nigerian citizenship but represents Niger at international level.
His performances in Spain’s Segunda División have attracted attention beyond Bologna, with fellow Serie A club Torino also reported to have shown interest in securing his services this summer.
While the transfer has not yet been officially completed, all indications suggest Bologna are closing in on an agreement, with the structure and financial terms of the deal now largely in place.
Should the move be finalized, Alhassane would become another African talent to make the step into Serie A, as Bologna continue to strengthen a squad aiming to build on recent domestic and European ambitions.
