Opinion: How Wijnaldum might slot in at Roma

Continuing to make a splash in this summer's transfer window, the signing of Georginio Wijnaldum is another statement of intent by the Roma hierarchy as they gear up for the new season.

Having established himself as a truly elite central midfield in European football over the years, the man who's won league titles in three countries, plus a Champions League and a host of cups, is a fantastic addition to Jose Mourinho's side.

Vastly experienced at both club and international level, the 31-year-old arrives from Paris Saint-Germain ready to hit the ground running and eager to achieve great things at Roma too.

Set to add plenty of energy, intensity and quality in all phases of the game, the veteran's precisely the calibre of player Mourinho was after to reinforce his midfield.

A tremendous asset on the defensive end who undertakes his work with determination, intensity and intelligence, opponents are always in for a fight when confronted with the former Liverpool hero.

So positionally astute and aware of his surroundings, the man who's learned so much working under the likes of Jurgen Klopp, Rafa Benitez and Mauricio Pochettino arrives with immense tactical knowledge so he knows what to do depending on the situation.

As a result, he knows if he needs to step out to apply pressure, hold his post, shift across, drop back, situate himself to block passing lanes or help teammates. Showing fine judgement and decision making when to press high, counterpress immediately after possession is lost and when chiming in with interventions, he's a master at stifling adversaries and recovering the ball.

Aside from reacting so swiftly to danger, his strength and athleticism are further keys to his game, allowing him to unbalance opponents, push them off the ball, track runners diligently and get back to provide structural stability.

A real leader out on the pitch who sets the tone for his colleagues to follow too, the Dutchman's presence is valuable towards ensuring his team remains compact, organised and fully focused on the task at hand.

Meanwhile, on the offensive side, the battle hardened 31-year-old holds his own here as well. To start with his movement, and his devastating runs into the final third are the most integral weapon in his arsenal.

So good at timing his runs to take full advantage of defenders who are preoccupied or ball watching, plus when gaps are available within backlines, he pounces astutely. Constantly getting into excellent positions to be a goalscoring threat, these penetrative, late arriving runs into the box add another dimension to his game while giving his team an extra attacking number.

Having scored well over 100 goals during his career, this serves a testament to what a nuisance he poses.

The fact he's so well versed in knowing where to position himself to form overloads in build up, support wide attacks, venture into dangerous zones between the lines and when to perform rotations adds to his value. So useful at connecting play and ensuring the ball holder has options, expect him to have little worry adapting to Mourinho's mechanics in possession once he's up to speed.

While he's not often heralded for his output with the ball at his feet, he's no slouch here either. Exceptional at protecting the ball and weaving away from foes in close quarters, the press resistant Wijnaldum's balance, strength and technical skills serve him wonderfully.

Typically clean with his first touch, once he gets the ball under control, he can outfox foes with clever touches, hold things up while waiting for an option, draw opponents to then find a free man or even win fouls due to opponents getting frustrated.

A competent passer and adept at pinpointing teammates in advanced areas, Wijnaldum distributes with composure and clarity. Preferring to keep things simple for the most part, he moves the ball concisely and quickly to help his team progress through the thirds with tempo.

Despite not being one to frequently launch expansive passes, he's shown he can be accurate and incisive when playing through balls in behind, switching the play, combining intricately in close or finding the feet of his forwards.

Well-rounded, consistent, durable and reliable, Roma's acquisition of Wijnaldum is another masterstroke. Offering an immediate upgrade to their midfield and improving the overall quality of their team, the established star, who's a proven winner, is just what Roma wanted.

Fundamentally sound, adaptable and possessing hardly any weaknesses, the multifaceted Dutch international appears destined to be a real hit in the capital.

Excited for this next chapter in his career in Serie A with Roma, the ultra competitive Wijnaldum will relish leading his team into battle week in, week out, with him set to be a crucial commander for Mourinho both on and off the pitch.

Follow Edward Stratmann on Twitter: @EdwardStratmann