Kerim Alajbegovic’s move to Juventus brings an end to one of the summer’s quieter transfer stories, with the highly rated Bosnian youngster ultimately choosing Turin after attracting interest from several Italian clubs.
According to reports, former Roma sporting director Ricky Massara had been tracking Alajbegovic since his time with the Giallorossi and remained convinced the teenager possessed enormous potential. Massara is believed to have played a key role in convincing Juventus to move for the player after leaving Roma.
Despite early speculation linking the youngster with a move to the capital, Roma were never seriously in the race. The main reason was Gian Piero Gasperini’s transfer strategy.
The Roma coach was prioritising players capable of making an immediate impact on the first team rather than investing heavily in another long-term attacking prospect. Reports suggest Alajbegovic was never among Gasperini’s preferred attacking targets, with the manager instead seeking explosive forwards capable of stretching defences, attacking space and offering greater physicality in the final third.
That difference in vision reportedly highlighted the contrasting approaches between Massara and Gasperini. While Massara viewed Alajbegovic as a player to develop over several seasons, Gasperini’s focus remained firmly on reinforcing the senior squad with players ready to contribute immediately.
In the end, Alajbegovic chose Juventus, where he will continue his development under a project that convinced both the player and his representatives. For Roma, however, the decision reflects a deliberate recruitment strategy rather than a missed opportunity, with the club continuing to prioritise experienced reinforcements who fit Gasperini’s tactical profile.
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