Daniele De Rossi targets the Estonian international as Al-Nassr keep Bento following Nawaf Al-Aqidi’s suspension.
Genoa’s search for a new number one has taken a dramatic turn. After a deal for Al-Nassr’s Bento collapsed at the final hurdle, the Italian side has shifted its focus to Arsenal’s rising star Karl Hein, currently impressing on loan at Werder Bremen.
The Bento Stalemate According to transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Genoa had a verbal agreement in place for Bento a loan with an option to buy. However, the move was abruptly blocked by Al-Nassr. The Saudi club decided to retain the Brazilian goalkeeper following the expulsion and subsequent suspension of their starter, Nawaf Al-Aqidi. With Al-Aqidi sidelined, Al-Nassr refused to sanction Bento’s departure, forcing Genoa to look elsewhere.
Enter Karl Hein The primary target for Genoa manager Daniele De Rossi is now Karl Hein. The 23-year-old Estonian international has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga this season while on loan from Arsenal.
Standing at 1.93m (6’4″), Hein is highly regarded for his commanding presence and elite reflexes. His performances in Germany and for the Estonian national team have convinced the Genoa board that he is the ideal long-term solution for their goal.
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Competition and Alternatives While Hein is the priority, Genoa is also keeping tabs on Manchester City’s Stefan Ortega. However, the chance for Hein to become a guaranteed starter in Serie A under De Rossi’s new project could be the deciding factor in the negotiations.
As the January window enters its final two weeks, Genoa is working quickly to reach an agreement with Arsenal to terminate his current loan at Werder Bremen and facilitate a move to Italy.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
