Mario Hermoso is on the verge of departing Roma, with reports indicating that he is nearing a transfer to Turkish club Fenerbahçe. The former Atlético Madrid defender, who joined Roma on a free transfer last summer, has struggled to make an impact in Italy, making only 13 appearances this season.
Calciomercato report how Fenerbahçe, managed by José Mourinho, have expressed a strong interest in acquiring Hermoso to bolster their defensive lineup. Mourinho has specifically requested a reinforcement in this area and has given his approval for the 29-year-old Spaniard’s arrival. The Turkish club is currently discussing the terms of the deal, with a preference for a loan arrangement that includes an option to buy, rather than a permanent transfer. This approach would allow Fenerbahçe to assess Hermoso’s performance over the coming months before making a final decision.
Hermoso’s time in Italy has been challenging, as he has not been able to replicate the form that made him a sought-after player prior to his move. He was previously linked with a transfer to Galatasaray last summer but ultimately chose Roma, where he has not found consistent playing time.
The potential move to Fenerbahçe comes at a crucial time for both Hermoso and the Turkish club. With injuries affecting their squad, Fenerbahçe is keen to strengthen its defense as they aim to close the gap in the Turkish Super League standings. Mourinho views Hermoso as a versatile option who can play both centrally and as a left-back, which would provide valuable depth to his squad.
As negotiations continue, Hermoso’s future remains uncertain. While he seems inclined toward the move, there are indications that he may also be considering offers from other clubs, particularly those in La Liga. Regardless of the outcome, Roma stands to benefit financially from Hermoso’s departure, having signed him without a transfer fee and potentially securing capital gains that could be reinvested into strengthening their own squad.