It was already clear that Alessandro Pajola would not continue with Virtus, and while Crvena zvezda had emerged as the leading contender for his signature, Basketball Sphere has learned that Partizan has now entered the race and opened negotiations.
After spending 11 years in Bologna, the Italian guard decided it was time to leave Virtus, a decision that sparked significant attention. Club president Massimo Zanetti attempted to convince him to stay, revealing that the two held three separate meetings on the matter, but they were ultimately unable to reach an agreement.
The farewell was especially emotional for Alessandro Pajola, who served as the team’s captain during the 2025-26 season. However, the primary reason behind his departure is his desire to play abroad for the first time in his professional career.
Although Crvena Zvezda had been widely regarded as the frontrunner for his signature, Partizan has now joined the pursuit, meaning Belgrade could become Pajola’s next home regardless of which of the city’s eternal rivals he ultimately chooses.
One of the main reasons Crvena Zvezda is considered the favorite is Milos Teodosic. The two shared the locker room in Bologna for four seasons, from 2019 to 2023, winning the Eurocup, the Seria A championship, and two Italian Super Cups together.
Details of the negotiations
According to Basketball Sphere sources, the main reason Partizan entered the race is head coach Joan Penarroya, who rates Alessandro Pajola very highly and believes his style of play would be a perfect fit for the black-and-whites. It is clear that every EuroLeague team can benefit from having a player with Pajola’s defensive qualities.
According to our information, Pajola has requested €1.2 million for a one-year contract.
Alessandro Pajola – Career overview
Last season, the Italian point guard averaged 4.0 points and 4.0 assists per game in the EuroLeague. He is capable of strengthening virtually any backcourt, primarily because of his elite defensive abilities, making him an ideal complementary piece alongside a point guard whose main focus is offense – something that certainly applies to Carlik Jones.
Thanks to his defensive excellence, Pajola has been named the Italian Serie A Defensive Player of the Year twice. He was also selected as the league’s Best Young Player in 2021.
During his time with Virtus, Alessandro Pajola won seven major trophies: the EuroCup, the FIBA Basketball Champions League, two Italian League titles, and three Italian Super Cups. He was also named the MVP of the Italian Super Cup in 2021.
