Bologna win race for Belgian-Congolese winger Samuel Mbangula after Atalanta talks

Werder Bremen winger Samuel Mbangula is close to returning to Italy, with Bologna reportedly set to sign the Belgian after beating competition from Atalanta.

According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Mbangula has been given the green light to undergo his medical ahead of a move to Bologna.

The 22-year-old had been in negotiations with Atalanta until late in the transfer process, but the Serie A club have instead turned their attention to Jonathan Rowe of Bologna.

Bologna move for Mbangula

Mbangula’s move to Bologna would bring an end to his spell with Werder Bremen, just a year after he joined the German club from Juventus.

Werder paid €10m for the Belgian winger, who is now set to return to Italy after only one season in the Bundesliga.

Bologna have moved quickly to secure the deal, with the player’s medical now the next significant step before the transfer can be completed.

Three goals in Germany

Mbangula made 28 competitive appearances for Werder Bremen during his time at the club.

He scored three goals and supplied four assists, but his performances have now resulted in a return to Serie A.

The winger had attracted interest from Atalanta, but Bologna have emerged as his destination after the Bergamo club switched their focus to Rowe.

With his medical reportedly approved, Mbangula is now expected to complete his move to Bologna and begin the next chapter of his career in Italian football.