Mehdi Benatia’s Transfer Price Set at €61 Million by AS Roma
After an outstanding season with AS Roma, Moroccan defender Mehdi Benatia has emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in world football. His commanding performances have attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Chelsea, and FC Barcelona. However, Roma’s leadership has made it clear: Benatia will not be sold cheaply.
Walter Sabatini, Roma’s sporting director, has placed a staggering €61 million price tag on the 27-year-old centre-back, signalling the club’s firm stance on retaining their star player. “For me, 30 million euros is what Benatia’s ‘bad foot’ is worth,” Sabatini said in an interview, referring to the player’s weaker left foot. “So, if the value of his bad foot is 30 million, then the total cost of the transfer must be 61 million. Benatia is not for sale unless a club offers us 61 million euros.”
This hefty valuation is likely to deter many potential buyers, even among Europe’s football giants. Rumours have linked Benatia with a move to Manchester City, where he could reinforce a struggling defence, as well as interest from Bayern Munich and Barcelona, who have been actively looking to bolster their backlines.
Benatia, who signed a contract with Roma running until 2018, has recently voiced frustration over the club’s management and hinted at his desire to seek new challenges elsewhere. Despite this, Roma remain adamant about protecting their asset and will only entertain offers that meet their high valuation.
The Moroccan international has been a key figure in Roma’s defensive line, combining physical presence, tactical intelligence, and composure on the ball. His ability to read the game and his aerial prowess have made him one of the standout defenders in Serie A, earning him recognition beyond Italy.
If a club does meet Roma’s demanding asking price, it would mark one of the most expensive transfers for a defender in recent history, underscoring Benatia’s value and importance.
For now, the future of Mehdi Benatia remains uncertain as the summer transfer window approaches, but one thing is clear: Roma will not part with their defensive star without a significant financial incentive.
