Bournemouth join Roma in race for David Affengruber as Marco Rose connection emerges

Bournemouth have emerged as one of the leading contenders to sign Elche defender David Affengruber, with Marco Rose's existing relationship with the Austrian potentially giving the Cherries an advantage over Serie A side Roma.

The 25-year-old centre-back is entering the final year of his contract at Elche, leaving the Spanish club increasingly open to a summer sale rather than risk losing him for nothing next year.

According to AS, Elche have been attempting to extend Affengruber's contract, but negotiations have yet to produce an agreement.

With his current deal running until June 2027, the La Liga club are now prepared to consider a "fair sale" during the current transfer window.

That has alerted a number of clubs, although Bournemouth and Roma are currently described as the two sides showing the strongest interest.

One factor working in Bournemouth's favour is Marco Rose's familiarity with the defender.

Affengruber progressed through the Red Bull Salzburg system, where Rose previously worked, meaning the Bournemouth boss already has first-hand knowledge of the Austrian international's qualities.

That relationship could prove valuable as Bournemouth weigh up whether to formalise their interest in the coming weeks.

While Bournemouth can offer the chance to play in the Premier League, Roma have their own advantage.

The Italian club are able to offer Champions League football, something the report claims appeals to Affengruber as he considers the next step in his career.

Interest is also growing elsewhere in Europe following the defender's impressive campaign with Elche, where he established himself as one of La Liga's standout performers last season.

Affengruber also featured for Austria at this summer's World Cup, further raising his profile ahead of the transfer window.

With Elche prepared to negotiate and multiple clubs monitoring the situation, the defender's future could be resolved before the transfer window closes. However, neither Bournemouth nor Roma have yet submitted a formal offer.

With Affengruber entering the final year of his contract, Elche are expected to continue listening to offers before the transfer window closes. Bournemouth could decide to use Marco Rose's connection with the defender to accelerate negotiations, while Roma's Champions League status ensures the competition for his signature remains open.

Would David Affengruber be a smart signing for Bournemouth ahead of the new Premier League season?