AS Roma are delighted to announce the signing of Turkish defender Yildrim Mert Cetin on a permanent transfer.

Mert Cetin, 22, joins the club from Turkish side Genclerbirligi for a fee of €3 million.

As part of the agreement, Genclerbirligi also retain a right to 10% of any future transfer fee – in the event the player is sold for a sum exceeding €5m.

The player has signed a five-year contract with the club that runs until 30 June 2024.

He will wear the No. 15 shirt.

“I know the size of the club I am going to be representing,” Mert Cetin said.

“I’m very happy to be here, it’s a feeling I can’t really describe in words. I am confident I will be able to live up to the hopes of the club and the fans.”

The centre-back made 25 appearances for his club last season, scoring one goal.

“We are pleased to be able to bring Mert Cetin to Rome, a young player but one with significant potential,” said club sporting director Gianluca Petrachi.

“I hope that he can quickly demonstrate the talent that we all believe he has.”