Roma: Not Just Dybala, Rensch Also Returns

AS Roma has made initial inquiries for Yukhym Konoplya, a versatile fullback currently at Shakhtar Donetsk, as the club seeks to strengthen its defensive flanks. The 1999-born Ukrainian defender can play across both fullback positions and has earned multiple caps for Ukraine's national team, where he has shared a dressing room with Roma striker Artem Dovbyk. Roma's interest in Konoplya reflects growing concerns about the club's current fullback options. Konstantinos Tsimikas has underperformed expectations, while Zeki Celik remains uncertain regarding his contract renewal situation. Wesley has shown promise, but the club believes additional quality is needed. Roma's sporting director Paolo Maldini is actively monitoring new fullback profiles ahead of the summer transfer window. Konoplya's contract with Shakhtar runs until September 2026, a factor that could influence negotiations. Several clubs showed interest in him during the previous winter transfer window, including Sassuolo and Ajax. The contract timeline creates potential scenarios for Roma, ranging from a negotiated transfer fee to a possible free transfer if the situation develops further. The initial exploratory contact represents Roma's first concrete move to address the fullback position ahead of the upcoming transfer period.

Defender Mario Hermoso was spotted having dinner with his agents, signaling active discussions about his future. The meeting comes as speculation grows about his next move in the transfer market. Hermoso's future has been linked with Roma for the upcoming season. The club is reportedly pursuing the Spanish defender as a potential signing, with his agents working to finalize terms. Details regarding the contract specifics and timeline remain unclear.

Roma are preparing for next season while managing their current campaign, with the club making initial contact regarding Kerim Alajbegovic, a young offensive winger currently at Salzburg on loan from Bayer Leverkusen. The 2007-born player has impressed with 39 appearances and 12 goals this season. Roma have initiated discussions through Alajbegovic's father and former Roma midfielder Miralem Pjanić, who visited the capital as an intermediary. Napoli and Inter are also interested in the prospect, who views Italy as the next step in his career. Leverkusen reportedly value him at over €20 million. On the playing side, Roma received positive news with the return of key players to training. Paulo Dybala and Wesley have rejoined group sessions following injuries and should be available for Saturday's match against Bologna. Devyne Rensch, the Dutch right-back, has avoided a serious injury and returned to training after his recent issue, providing competition for the right-back position despite Wesley also being available. Dybala, absent for nearly 90 days, is eager to resume his partnership with forward Malen, which had energized supporters earlier in the season. The club continues to monitor defensive matters, including centre-back Mario Hermoso's contract situation, which expires in 2026 but includes a renewal clause favoring Roma. Technical director Gasperini appears more relaxed following these positive developments, with the immediate focus shifting to Bologna ahead of the club's challenging Champions League qualification battle.