According to French sources, Bologna has finalized an agreement to sign former England U21 player Jonathan Rowe from Olympique de Marseille. The deal is reportedly worth €19.5 million, including bonuses, with Marseille retaining a 10% sell-on clause.
The transfer comes in the wake of a dressing room incident at Marseille involving Rowe and teammate Adrien Rabiot. Following a 1-0 loss to Rennes in Ligue 1, the two players engaged in a physical altercation that required security intervention.
Marseille sporting director Mehdi Benatia commented on the situation, stating, “It`s unacceptable to have players striking each other and requiring security to separate them.” Both Rowe and Rabiot were given time off to reflect on the incident but were subsequently placed on the transfer list after failing to apologize.
The 22-year-old Rowe had already been rumored to be available for transfer following Marseille`s recent acquisition of Igor Paixao. However, the post-match altercation accelerated the process, potentially benefiting Bologna in their pursuit of the player.
With personal terms already agreed earlier in the week, Rowe`s move to Bologna appears to be nearing completion. The transfer represents a significant investment for the Italian club as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.