Justin Kluivert: Roma a “beautiful challenge” but I have lots to learn

New Roma forward Justin Kluivert has insisted he has a lot to learn in Serie A but is ready for the “beautiful challenge”.

Kluivert signed for the Giallorossi from Ajax this summer on a five-year deal for £15.8m after enjoying a good season with the Amsterdam club.

The 19-year-old is one of 12 new signings for Roma over the transfer window so far as the club look to build on their performances last season.

And Kluivert believes he will be able to grow alongside Roma and prove himself outside of his native Netherlands.

“I’m quick and skilful in one-on-ones,” he told a press conference, via Football Italia.

“I look for the goal. I have to improve in everything though, I’m very young and in particular I need to improve defensively.

“I want to show my value and go beyond what I did in the Netherlands. I’m young, I have a lot to learn and I can’t wait to get started. We can do important things.

“Coming to a club like Roma is a great step, I’ve come from Ajax and Roma is an ambitious club that wants to grow.

“The future? I don’t know what I’ll do, maybe I’ll stay forever or maybe I’ll change team.

“It’s a beautiful challenge, not only for football but also for personal growth. I can’t wait to get started.”

The 19-year-old also revealed he had spoke with father Patrick Kluivert before making his move, with the former striker advising him to move to Italy.

He added: “I talked to him, he played here for a year and he knows Serie A well. We didn’t only talk about Serie A but about everything, what a footballer has to do to grow. I want to follow his advice and his footsteps.

“Serie A is no less strong than other leagues, it has a great level. There are great clubs and players, and we’re all watching Ronaldo at Juventus.”

Kluivert’s impressive season

Despite being just 19, Justin Kluivert has already been tipped to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a great.

Playing 30 games in the Eredivisie last season, Kluivert started 27 times, and was one of Ajax’s better players.

The youngster completed 81 take-ons in the Eredivisie, the third-best tally at the club, with a success rate of 52.6%.

Kluivert also scored his first hat-trick for Ajax’s senior side in a 5-1 win over Roda, kick starting his goal-scoring campaign which would see him net another seven.

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