Opinion: Why Juan Jesus is exactly what Roma need

Thanks to a combination of departures, loans, and untimely injuries, this summer has already seen a massive shakeup in defence for Roma. Fortunately, manager Luciano Spalletti has wasted no time in shoring up the Giallorossi back line.

With Lucas Digne and Maicon no longer at the club, Leandro Castan out on loan to Sampdoria and Antonio Rudiger out injured for the start of the season, Luciano Spalletti immediately made his intentions clear that securing defensive reinforcements was an absolute priority this summer.

Starting with the acquisition of Mario Rui from Empoli to take Lucas Digne's spot on the left, Spalletti has now moved to fortify the centre of his defence.

The astute acquisition of Juan Jesus from Inter Milan on an initial loan deal last week goes a long way in filling the void left by the absence of Castan and Rudiger - and perhaps explains the willingness to now also let Ervin Zukanovic depart for Atalanta.

Bringing in Jesus gives the Giallorossi some much-needed depth in this area of the pitch. Moreover, signing a player who has a fantastic knowledge of the league, has amassed 142 senior appearances for Inter and who still has room for improvement makes Jesus a very handy addition to the squad.

His familiarity with Serie A means that he’ll be able to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact.
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Even though he wasn't a regular starter for Roberto Mancini's side last term, only featuring 19 times for the Nerrazurri, Jesus's capture is undoubtedly a move that's full of upside for Roma.

Capable of playing within a two or three man central defensive partnership, as well as a left-back, his versatility will give Spalletti plenty of tactical flexibility. In addition, his solid technical qualities, punctuated by his range of passing and ability to dribble past opponents, will make him a real weapon for Roma when bringing the ball out from the back.

Despite being prone to the odd lapse in concentration, which he readily admits is something he's working on, his positioning and reading of play is, for the most part, solid. He picks up markers diligently and regularly steps up into midfield to intercept passes.

The most striking aspect of his game, however, is undoubtedly his immense physicality. Jesus possesses blistering pace for a centre-back, allowing him to patrol the back line and cover any of his teammates' blown marking assignments. Combine this with his aerial prowess and hulking strength, and it's easy to see why he's such an imposing adversary to play against.

Standing at 185cm tall and blessed with outstanding physical qualities, Jesus has the versatility to deal with many different types of forwards. He can be equally effective against big target men and smaller, more mobile attackers.

Speaking in his first official interview, he candidly noted where he feels his strengths lie, and which areas of his game require improvement.

"Thankfully I'm still very young," he said. "I'm strong, powerful and I'm already familiar with Italian football and I think that's very important and can help Roma."

When asked about what part of his game needs particular refining, he added: "My concentration, knowing when to drop off or push up. I think those are the things I need to improve.

"I also need to improve in keeping the line, but Spalletti is helping me a great deal. I am 25 and need to make that step up in quality. I have to improve on what I’m missing, as in football you learn something new every day."

All things considered, there's no reason to suggest Jesus can't progress and become an exceptional, well-rounded defender under Spalletti's tutelage.

All the parameters are in place for him to succeed, it's now up to him to make the most of his incredible opportunity in what should be an exciting season in the Italian capital.