Bologna Football Club is entering the January transfer window with ambitions to bolster its attacking options and possibly secure European football next season. Reports from Il Resto del Carlino indicate the club is considering re-signing Marko Arnautovic from Inter Milan and is evaluating interest in Joaquin Correa, who has also been offered to them.
After achieving positive results during his previous two seasons with Bologna, the return of Arnautovic could provide the spark the team needs as they push for positions such as the Europa League or Conference League. "One idea Bologna have would be to bring back striker Marko Arnautovic," noted Il Resto del Carlino, highlighting Bologna's growing interest.
Arnautovic, who joined Inter from Bologna last summer, left behind cherished memories at the Stadio Renato dall'Ara. The Austrian striker was considered an attacking talisman, and his potential return could energize both the squad and its supporters. Meanwhile, the possibility of acquiring another Inter player, Joaquin Correa, is also on the table. According to Il Resto del Carlino, "Joaquin Correa’s agent Alessandro Lucci has made contact with the Rossoblu," as discussions continue to clarify Correa's future with the club.
Despite these enticing prospects, Bologna appears cautious. They are focusing on building confidence among current squad members like Giacomo Castro and Dallinga. A decision to pursue new strikers could risk morale among these players, especially after significant investments made for Castro and Dallinga, alongside the young Dutchman’s recent improvements. Bologna's commitment to their current squad is evidenced by assertions made by their staff about supporting existing players rather than disrupting their momentum.
Outside of strikers, other recent developments at Bologna include the loan signing of Jesper Karlsson, who has moved to Lecce without an option to buy. Karlsson, acquired from AZ during the summer of 2023, played 15 matches and scored once for Bologna before making the move. This decision indicates Bologna's strategy of providing playing time to younger or less utilized players as they continue to reshape their squad.
Another aspect to note involves Bologna's determination to retain Kacper Urbanski, who has been attracting interest from Juventus. The 20-year-old midfielder previously began his career at Lech Poznan and had made notable strides under coach Thiago Motta. Bologna officials have recently exercised the option to extend his contract through 2026 to guard against losing him for free. "Bologna have recently exercised their option to extend the player’s contract from 2025 to 2026," reported Il Corriere dello Sport, indicating the club is committed to maintaining its promising young talent.
Urbanski's market value is estimated at around €6 million, and with Juventus reportedly interested, Bologna faces pressure to secure his services for the long-term. Officials Gianluca Sartori and Marco Di Vaio are exploring possibilities for extending the contract sufficiently to fend off the suitors or ensuring they receive decent compensation if he moves on. The entire situation portrays Bologna's strategic foresight and planning among rising talents, as they continue to develop both player skill and club identity.
With training sessions resuming this week at Casteldebole, the focus turns to developing the club's existing squad. While the allure of high-profile signings like Arnautovic and Correa remains, Bologna is prioritizing cohesion and morale among its current players. The club’s leadership continues to monitor the transfer market closely as it navigates this pivotal period to optimize its chances of European qualification.
Overall, Bologna Football Club’s proactive approach during this January transfer window demonstrates their intent to remain competitive and progressive within Serie A. A blend of strategic retention and targeted recruitment could define their path as the rest of the season approaches.