Roma have set their sights on Borussia Mönchengladbach’s rising star Rocco Reitz, dubbed the “German Barella” for his similarities to Inter Milan’s midfield dynamo. With Enzo Le Fée’s move to Sunderland confirmed, Roma is intensifying its search for midfield reinforcements, and Reitz has emerged as a prime target.
La Gazzetta dello Sport report how the 22-year-old German midfielder fits Roma’s profile perfectly: young, physically robust, and with a manageable salary. Reitz could provide depth and competition for Manu Koné, potentially forming a formidable midfield trio in Claudio Ranieri’s system.
Roma’s scouting department has been monitoring Reitz for weeks, and his connection with former teammate Koné could facilitate the move. The two played together at Mönchengladbach, and their strong relationship is evident in their social media interactions.
Reitz’s journey to becoming a Bundesliga regular is a testament to his development. After joining Borussia’s youth academy at age seven, he honed his skills during loan spells in Belgium with Sint-Truiden before cementing his place in Mönchengladbach’s first team.
The German U21 international is valued at around €20 million, matching the release clause set to activate in January 2026. However, Roma hopes to negotiate a lower fee, leveraging their good relationship with Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Competition for Reitz’s signature is fierce, with Brighton & Hove Albion showing particular interest. Roma will need to act decisively to secure the midfielder’s services.
Alternative targets for Roma include Warren Bondo from Monza, who has also caught AC Milan’s attention, and Cagliari duo Matteo Prati and Antoine Makoumbou, both familiar to Ranieri from his time in Sardinia. Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucouré remains a backup option, with his contract set to expire soon.
