Former Alianza Lima midfielder Gustavo Roverano has signed with reigning champions Universitario de Deportes, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The move marks a significant shift in Peru’s top-flight landscape as Roverano, a product of Alianza’s youth system, joins the Lima-based side that recently clinched the Liga 1 title.
Roverano, who spent the majority of his professional career with Alianza Lima, made the switch after his contract expired at the conclude of the 2023 season. Universitario announced the signing via their official social media channels, welcoming the veteran playmaker with a simple but pointed message: “Bienvenido.”
The 28-year-old attacking midfielder is known for his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate tempo in central areas. During his time at Alianza, he made over 150 appearances across all competitions, contributing goals and assists in key matches against rivals and in continental fixtures.
His arrival at Universitario adds depth to a midfield already stocked with international experience, as the champions look to defend their title and make a deep run in the 2024 Copa Libertadores. Roverano’s familiarity with the high-pressure atmosphere of Lima derbies could prove valuable as Universitario aims to maintain dominance in the Peruvian Clasico.
The transfer, while not involving a transfer fee, represents a symbolic moment in Peruvian football, highlighting the fluidity of allegiance among the country’s elite clubs. Roverano’s decision to join the reigning champions underscores Universitario’s growing pull in the domestic market.
He is expected to report for preseason training in the coming days as Universitario prepares for the upcoming Liga 1 season, which kicks off in late January 2024.
