Universitatea Craiova is intensifying its transfer activity this summer to compete strongly on three fronts: the Romanian SuperLiga, the Cupa României, and the Conference League. The club has already secured eight new players and is close to adding two more to the squad, according to club owner Mihai Rotaru.
Rotaru confirmed in a televised interview that the team has addressed around 75% of the key positions sought by coach Mirel Rădoi, particularly focusing on a defender, a striker, and a central midfielder. He revealed that negotiations are ongoing for two additional players, with announcements expected imminently, possibly by July 9 or 10.
Among the confirmed new signings are central defenders Darius Fălcușan (19) and Oleksandr Romanchuk (25), as well as striker Assad Al-Hamlawi (24) from Slask Wroclaw, the latter being a notable acquisition given his previous club’s connection with Romanian player Tudor Băluță. These players are currently in Craiova and are awaiting medical examinations before official presentation.
The club’s summer recruitment has involved both promising young talents and experienced players, including:
– Luca Băsceanu (19), acquired for €1 million from Farul
– Mihnea Rădulescu (19), for €400,000 from Petrolul
– David Matei (18), for €75,000 from Steaua
– Alexandru Crețu (33), free transfer from Al-Wehda
– Samuel Teles (28), free from Oțelul Galați
– Tudor Băluță (26), free from Slask Wroclaw
– Nikola Stevanovic (26), from Oțelul Galați
– Oleksandr Romanchuk (25), for €750,000 from Kryvbas
This aggressive recruitment strategy comes after the departure of several players, including Alexandru Mitriță, Takuto Oshima, and Gjoko Zajkov, among others.
Rotaru also revealed that the total cost of the transfer campaign is around €4 million, encompassing transfer fees, signing bonuses, and agent commissions.
Currently, Universitatea Craiova sits third in the SuperLiga playoff standings, and the bolstered squad aims to improve on that position while making a deep run in cup competitions and the Conference League.
The addition of these new players reflects a clear intent to strengthen the squad depth and quality, providing coach Mirel Rădoi with more tactical options as the season approaches. The imminent signings may prove pivotal in Craiova’s quest for silverware across all competitions.