AS Roma recruit Ervin Zukanovic

AS Roma have completed the signing of Bosnian defender Ervin Zukanovic from Sampdoria, the Serie A side announced on their official Twitter account.

According to L’Equipe, the Giallorossi have agreed to pay €1.5 million for a six-month loan, whereas a €2.5 million buy-out clause will be automatically activated when the player has featured in four competitive matches.

Zukanovic arrives at Stadio Olimpico as a replacement for veteran full-back Ashley Cole, who recently sealed a move to LA Galaxy after having his contract with Roma rescinded.

Zukanovic had only joined Sampdoria from Chievo last summer, but he impressed to score 3 goals in 16 league outings, and in turn secured a big club move.

The 28-year-old is equally adept at playing centre-back or left-back and no doubts that his versatility will come in handy for coach Luciano Spalletti, who has yet to decide whether to play a three-man or four-man defence.