Jonathan Rowe Nears Marseille Exit as Bologna and Premier League Clubs Battle for England U21 Star

It looks like Jonathan Rowe’s time in Marseille could already be coming to an end. The England U21 international, who only made his move permanent this summer, is now at the centre of transfer speculation once again. According to Fabrizio Romano, discussions with his entourage are expected this week, and Serie A side Bologna have stepped forward with an official bid that has shaken up the race for his signature.

Bologna Make Surprise Move for Jonathan Rowe Amid Marseille Exit Talks

Bologna’s interest has come somewhat out of the blue. Many expected Roma or Atalanta to be the Italian clubs pushing hardest for Rowe, but the Rossoblù have quietly positioned themselves at the front of the queue. Their formal offer signals serious intent, and it’s the kind of move that could complicate plans for Premier League sides who were also hoping to secure his services.

The 22-year-old winger, who came through the academy at Norwich City, only joined Marseille on loan last season. That deal included an obligation to buy, which Les Olympiens have already triggered, but it now seems Roberto De Zerbi has other ideas for his squad. With Champions League football returning to the Vélodrome, the new coach is building a side in his own image — and Rowe might not fit into that vision.

Premier League Interest Grows as Leeds United Keep Tabs

Back in England, Rowe’s name has been mentioned in several boardrooms. Leeds United, freshly promoted to the Premier League, are believed to be admirers. Their focus this summer has been on adding pace and creativity in wide areas, and Rowe ticks both boxes. He made 30 appearances for Marseille last season, scoring three times and providing four assists, proving himself capable of adapting to a higher level of football outside of England.

While Leeds are the clearest English contender at the moment, whispers suggest other Premier League outfits are also keeping a close watch. Rowe’s blend of technical ability and versatility across the front line makes him a valuable asset for teams looking to strengthen before the start of the new campaign.

Roma and Atalanta Eye the England U21 Star

In Italy, Roma and Atalanta are two clubs who have monitored Rowe’s progress. Roma, in particular, see him as a long-term investment, someone who can add dynamism to their attacking options. Atalanta, meanwhile, are known for rejuvenating careers and giving young players the platform to shine in an attacking system.

However, Bologna’s bid has changed the dynamic. Rather than waiting in the background, the Emilia-Romagna club have decided to test Marseille’s willingness to sell immediately. If successful, it would be quite the coup for a team looking to build on their impressive domestic campaign and make strides in Europe.

Turkish Giants Fenerbahce and Besiktas Also in the Mix

Rowe

Journalist Fabrice Hawkins has added another layer to the story, reporting that Turkish heavyweights Fenerbahce and Besiktas are also circling. Both clubs are in the market for a wide player and would likely offer Rowe the chance to become a central figure in their attacking plans.

For Marseille, this growing interest can only be good news. They are reportedly open to letting the youngster leave if a good offer arrives, and with multiple clubs across three major leagues showing interest, the French side could well spark a bidding war.

What Next for Rowe?

For Rowe himself, the next few weeks will be crucial. After making the jump from Norwich to Ligue 1 last summer, he adapted well in his first full season outside of England. Playing under pressure at a club like Marseille — with its passionate fanbase and demanding expectations — has undoubtedly toughened him up. But the question now is whether he wants to continue fighting for his place under De Zerbi or move somewhere he will be guaranteed regular minutes.

At 22, his career is at a crossroads. Stay at Marseille and hope to break into a side competing in the Champions League? Return to England and test himself in the Premier League? Or take a leap into Serie A or Turkey, where he could be handed a key role right away?

De Zerbi’s Plans Leave Rowe Facing an Exit

One thing is clear: De Zerbi is reshaping Marseille in his own way. Known for his attacking philosophy and demand for technically sharp players, the Italian coach has already identified who he wants to build around. Unfortunately for Rowe, it appears he isn’t one of the names at the top of that list.

That doesn’t mean his Marseille stint has been a failure. Far from it. Rowe showed flashes of real quality, enough to catch the eye of scouts across Europe. He may not be central to Marseille’s future, but he has certainly done enough to open new doors.

A Transfer Battle Worth Watching

Transfer windows always throw up surprises, and Rowe’s situation could be one of the more intriguing sagas of the summer. Bologna’s bold bid, Roma and Atalanta’s interest, Premier League attention, and the lure of Istanbul from Fenerbahce and Besiktas — it all makes for a fascinating mix.

What started as a straightforward obligation-to-buy loan has now turned into a multi-club chase for one of England’s most promising young wingers. For Rowe, the choice is both exciting and daunting: a chance to shape the trajectory of his career in the decisive years ahead.