Roma at Risk of Champions League Failure

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has reportedly identified a second player of interest at Marseille alongside Mason Greenwood. The article provides a technical analysis of Paixao's playing style, focusing on his dribbling ability and capacity to change pace during play. The piece examines what makes the player attractive to Roma's coaching staff. Details remain unclear regarding the extent of Roma's interest or any potential move.

Roma's incoming sporting director Tony D'Amico will need to reinforce the defence alongside the planned attacking overhaul, with the club facing potential squad gaps depending on Ndicka's future. Although the attack is the primary focus—built around Malen and Dybala with Pellegrini in support—the defence will require significant investment. The backline was Roma's strongest asset under Gasperini's management this season, forming the foundation for Champions League qualification, but numerical reinforcement is essential. With Kumbulla set to return, Ziolkowski departing for game time, and Ndicka's status uncertain due to Financial Fair Play concerns, Roma would be left with only four senior centre-backs (Hermoso, Mancini, Ghilardi, and possibly Ndicka) for a demanding season requiring at least two players per position. That would leave two additional defenders short. Several targets have been identified. Oosterwolde is viewed as a promising profile but carries a price tag of €20–25 million, becoming viable mainly if Ndicka departs. Bologna's Lucumì, available on an expiring contract, is another option at roughly €20 million—far lower than Bologna's initial €28 million demand. Solet represents an ideal profile but costs at least €25 million and Inter are already advanced in negotiations. Muharemovic is ready to leave Sassuolo, though domestic competition is driving up his price. Gasperini has been clear that Roma needs experienced, quality defenders—both a high-level starter and a reliable backup.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has identified Nikola Vlasic, Torino's Croatian midfielder, as a potential summer signing for AS Roma. Vlasic caught Gasperini's attention during Torino's Coppa Italia victory over Roma in the round of 16, where he provided two assists in a three-goal performance. The 27-year-old has established himself as Torino's technical leader this season, scoring eight Serie A goals and providing crucial assists throughout the campaign. A former West Ham and Everton player, Vlasic has proven experience in top-flight football and represents the calibre of player Gasperini seeks to elevate Roma's ambitions. Gasperini is building a squad capable of competing across three competitions, requiring a rotation of 15–16 players. Rather than arriving as a guaranteed starter, Vlasic would function as a versatile option for difficult matches where Roma need to unlock defences. His familiarity with Serie A and proven adaptability make him an appealing prospect. Torino values Vlasic highly and will not part with him easily—his contract runs until 2027, and the club aims to secure a renewal. However, the possibility of playing Champions League football could prove attractive to the player. Financially, the operation remains feasible. Vlasic could reportedly be acquired for €13–14 million, a relatively modest outlay for a player of his quality. Roma have not yet pushed decisively for his signature, but the club views him favourably and is likely to make an attempt to bring him to Rome in the coming weeks.