Back on the market one year after costing 30 million euros

Artem Dovbyk is, according to reports from Italy, a name now placed on the transfer market and it comes as a notable development given that the Ukrainian striker was signed just a year ago amid considerable expectations.

As reported by Corriere dello Sport, AS Roma are prepared to listen to offers for the 28-year-old forward, having concluded internally that the return on their €30 million investment has not matched what was hoped for when he joined from Girona in the summer of 2024.

Dovbyk arrived in the Italian capital as one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe after an exceptional season in La Liga, where he had finished as Girona's top scorer and one of the league’s most productive attackers. Roma saw in him a physically imposing, technically skilled, and goal-hungry striker who could finally offer a consistent threat up front something the club had lacked in recent seasons following the injury struggles and inconsistent form of other forwards.

At the time of his signing, Roma beat out several competitors from England and Germany to secure Dovbyk’s signature, committing to a long-term project centered around his qualities. The move was seen as a statement by the club and as a signal of intent under then-manager Daniele De Rossi. However, one year later, the reality has proven to be more complex.

Although Dovbyk did manage to find the back of the net 17 times in 45 appearances across all competitions a respectable tally on paper club insiders and supporters alike have raised questions about the overall quality of his performances. Many of his goals came in the early part of the campaign or in less crucial fixtures, while his impact in high-stakes matches, including key Serie A clashes and European competitions, was often limited. His style of play, at times described as rigid or lacking fluidity, has also led to tactical issues within Roma’s system, especially when paired with more mobile attacking players.

In addition to the goals, Dovbyk registered three assists, but he was not heavily involved in the build-up play or transitions, which is something Roma’s current tactical setup increasingly demands from their central striker. His tendency to drift out of games and struggle against tightly organized defensive lines made him a source of frustration for fans who expected more dynamism and leadership from such a high-profile acquisition.

The decision to put him on the market also seems to be driven by Roma’s financial strategy. With UEFA Financial Sustainability Regulations becoming stricter, and with the club seeking to reinforce multiple areas of the squad including midfield and full-back positions offloading a high-wage, high-value asset like Dovbyk could unlock funds for summer reinforcements. There is a sense that Roma may attempt to recoup a substantial portion of the €30 million fee they paid to Girona, although it is unlikely they will recover the full amount unless a bidding war develops.

Interest in Dovbyk is expected to come from several leagues. Some Spanish clubs have reportedly inquired about his situation, especially mid-table La Liga sides who remember his prolific spell at Girona. Meanwhile, teams in the Bundesliga and the Turkish Süper Lig could also see him as a valuable addition, particularly if the asking price becomes more accessible. There is even speculation that a move to the Saudi Pro League could be on the cards, given the financial power and appetite for international forwards in the region.

Born in Cherkasy, Ukraine, Dovbyk began his career at Dnipro, where he rose through the youth ranks and made his professional debut as a teenager. His early development included stints in Moldova with FC Sheriff Tiraspol and in Denmark with FC Midtjylland, where he gained valuable experience in more physical and tactical leagues. Upon returning to Ukraine with Dnipro-1, he exploded in the domestic league before earning his move to Girona, where his career reached new heights with a breakout 2023/24 season.

Despite his uncertain future at Roma, Dovbyk remains a player with proven goal-scoring credentials, and at 28 years old, he still has several prime years ahead of him. For any club in need of a physically dominant number nine who can contribute immediately, he could represent an intriguing and potentially undervalued option on the market.