William Bianda joins Roma on long-term deal

Bianda, 18, joins the club from French side RC Lens for an initial fee of €6 million. The deal includes a number of performance-related clauses, on the part of both the club and the player, worth up to a maximum of an additional €5m.

Lens also retain the right to 15% of the profit from any future transfer fee, accounting for the initial fee paid by Roma and any add-on clauses that may have been met at that point.

Bianda has signed a five-year contract with the Giallorossi that runs until 30 June 2023.

“I am happy to be here. Roma are a very big club,” Bianda said.

“I’m sure this is the right choice for me, for my progression and for this next stage of my career.”

Born in April 2000, Bianda becomes the first player signed by Roma to have been born after the Millennium.

A France Under-18 international, he emerged onto the scene with Lens during the 2017-18 campaign, making nine appearances in all competitions as he made an immediate impression at senior level.

A tall, physically imposing centre-back, Bianda is comfortable on the ball and possesses an impressive passing range.

“With the signing of William, Roma continues its investment in young talent,” said sporting director Monchi.

“We are certain that, with the help of our coaches and our experienced players, William will continue to improve and realise his potential.”

Bianda made five appearances in Ligue 2 for boyhood club Lens last season – and a further four in the French Cup.

At international level, last year he represented France at both the Under-17 European Championship and Under-17 World Cup.

Bianda becomes Roma's ninth signing of the summer. He will wear the No. 28 shirt for the Giallorossi.