Roma Target Napoli Director Giovanni Manna for Front-Office Overhaul
Transfer News·28 April 2026·45d ago

Roma Target Napoli Director Giovanni Manna for Front-Office Overhaul

Source: Cult of Calcio

Roma is pursuing Giovanni Manna, Napoli's sporting director, as a replacement in its front office following an internal restructuring. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini and ownership view Manna as their top choice, believing they will operate in sync—a contrast to Gasperini's current relationship with Roma director Frederic Massara. Manna has earned widespread respect at Napoli for balancing youth development with experienced signings, and previously managed Juventus' Next Gen squad, which aligns with Roma's plan to establish a second team.

Manna remains under contract with Napoli until 2029, making any move challenging. Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis is unlikely to release him without significant resistance. Roma's shortlist also includes Cristiano Giuntoli, Atalanta's Tony D'Amico, and Verona's Sean Sogliano as alternative options. Beyond the director role, Roma intends to strengthen three areas next summer: a new left-back to allow Wesley to shift to the right wing, a pacey attacker following failed experiments with Leon Bailey and Bryan Zaragoza, and potentially address midfield depth depending on potential departures of either Manu Koné or Evan N'Dicka.

● AI Generated Summary

This summary was generated by an AI model. Always read the source for complete and accurate information.

Testo Originale / Source Text

Machine-scraped Italian — paste into Google Translate for a full read.

Roma director Frederic Massara wasn’t ousted alongside Claudio Ranieri last week, but his days at the club are numbered, and Napoli exec Giovanni Manna is the ownership’s and Gian Piero Gasperini’s top option to replace him, Corriere dello Sport relays.The Partenopei official is highly regarded for the way he has combined youth and experience since moving to Campania. He has had a high hit rate and contributed to signing Scott McTominay, Kevin De Bruyne, Alessandro Buongiorno, Rasmus Hojlund, and Alisson Santos, among others. More importantly, the coach believes they’ll be on the same wavelength, which is not the case currently.In addition, Manna helmed Juventus’ Next Gen squad for a long time, and Roma want to create a second team as well. On the other hand, he’s under contract until 2029. It’ll be arduous to convince Aurelio De Laurentiis to let him go. Their shortlist also comprises Cristiano Giuntoli, Atalanta’s Tony D’Amico, and Verona’s Sean Sogliano.The Giallorossi will focus on three roles next summer. They’ll sign a new left-back so that Wesley could return to the right wing and a new pacey attacker. Leon Bailey, who has already left, and Bryan Zaragoza, who won’t stay permanently, didn’t pan out. The final one hinges on whom they’ll sell, either Manu Koné or Evan N’Dicka.Our Take on Roma and MannaHe’s had his misses too, but it’s tough to properly judge his work, as Antonio Conte’s input is massive. He also had plenty of resources to work with. Unless the Partenopei are for some reason headed in a different direction he doesn’t like, it’s hard to imagine they’ll be able to poach him. Follow us on Google News for more updates on Serie A and Italian football Related posts: Multiple Teams to Be Involved in Carousel of Directors Gasperini and Roma Bass Headed for a Proper Reckoning Grading Every New Coaching Appointment in Serie A Lookman Future Influencing Roma and Napoli Plans

Read original on Cult of Calcio

More Transfer News

Koné declines Atlético Madrid, eyes PSG move; Arsenal emerge as concrete option
Transfer NewsSquad News AI
just now

Koné declines Atlético Madrid, eyes PSG move; Arsenal emerge as concrete option

Roma midfielder Koné has rejected an approach from Atlético Madrid as he waits for concrete interest from PSG. Arsenal, finalists in the last Champions League, have now made concrete moves for the 2001-born French midfielder, with initial contact reportedly made with his representatives. The Arsenal option is reportedly appealing to Koné, whose future remains uncertain. Roma's priority under head coach Gasperini and the club is to meet the Settlement Agreement requirements of 50 million euros by 30 June without sacrificing major players like Ndicka and Koné. The plan focuses on selling players such as Soulé (linked with Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund, and Arab clubs), Ziolkowski, and other minor assets. However, if attractive offers arrive that are difficult to refuse, Koné would represent a valuable sale for profit purposes, with several European clubs having shown interest in the French midfielder. Beyond Inter, Atlético Madrid was the first to make a move for Koné. Should he depart Roma, the club has Musah in their sights as a potential replacement. Details on the timeline or fee structure remain unclear.

Roma move away from Paixao as winger prefers to stay at Marseille
Transfer News AI
just now

Roma move away from Paixao as winger prefers to stay at Marseille

Igor Paixao, an offensive winger who had been linked with AS Roma in recent weeks, is unlikely to join the club. The player reportedly prefers to remain at Marseille rather than pursue a move to the Giallorossi. Roma had considered Paixao as a potential addition to their squad during the transfer window, but his preference to stay in France means the club will need to explore other targets for their attacking options.

Dybala Keeps Roma Waiting on Contract Renewal Decision
Transfer NewsSquad News AI
2h ago

Dybala Keeps Roma Waiting on Contract Renewal Decision

Paulo Dybala has refused to commit to a new contract with AS Roma, stating he has not yet decided his future while speaking from Argentina. The forward said: "Vedremo che cosa succederà. Ormai tutte le squadre sono un'opzione, persino l'Instituto Cordoba, così la gente non si arrabbia. Sono ancora un giocatore della Roma fino alla fine del mese, quindi, per rispetto nei confronti del club non parlerò del mio futuro. Tuttavia, non ho ancora deciso." He added that "Tutto è possibile, nel calcio non si sa mai" and acknowledged that Boca Juniors is also an option, though he declined to elaborate. Despite Dybala's cautious public stance, Roma's hierarchy remains confident that negotiations are progressing. The 32-year-old has submitted a counter-proposal to the club that includes performance bonuses, a flexible contract structure (1+1), and involvement in Roma's centenary celebrations, with the possibility of ending his career at the club. The salary being discussed is approximately €500,000 annually higher than Roma's initial offer of €2 million. The renewal discussions were previously handled by club officials but have now been transferred to newly announced sporting director D'Amico, who will take over negotiations going forward. Roma is also working on separate contract extensions for defenders Çelik and midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini, though Pellegrini is awaiting contact from the club.

Il Messaggero – RomaRead original →

More on Wesley

Player profile →
Wesley absent as Brazil opens World Cup 2026; Roma players feature across tournament openers
Squad NewsClub News AI
1h ago

Wesley absent as Brazil opens World Cup 2026; Roma players feature across tournament openers

AS Roma midfielder Wesley will miss Brazil's opening match at the 2026 World Cup against Morocco, which takes place at midnight at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Wesley, who was travelling towards a starting-place selection, is sidelined from Brazil's Group C opener under former Roma coach Carlo Ancelotti. The match will be broadcast on RAI and DAZN. Other Roma players are set to feature in the tournament's opening fixtures. Turkish defender Celik takes the field on Sunday morning at 6 a.m. as part of Montella's Turkey squad against Australia in Group D. Netherlands winger Malen will debut Sunday evening at 10 p.m. against Japan. Additional Roma-connected players include Costa d'Avorio's Ndicka, who opens Monday night against Ecuador, and France's Koné, scheduled for Tuesday evening against Senegal. Wesley received a warm reception from Roma fans at Fiumicino airport ahead of his World Cup departure, with supporters chanting 'Forza Roma!' The tournament represents the first World Cup featuring Roma players at the 2026 edition. Brazil's squad will be without one of their key midfield options as they begin their campaign in Group C.

Ruggeri in demand as Roma and Fiorentina compete for left-back; player prioritizes Atlético Madrid stay
Transfer NewsSquad News AI
1d ago

Ruggeri in demand as Roma and Fiorentina compete for left-back; player prioritizes Atlético Madrid stay

Roma are actively pursuing Ruggeri, the former Atalanta defender, as they seek to strengthen their wing positions under head coach Gasperini. The club views him as part of a broader effort to refresh the lateral areas of the pitch, with Wesley alone deemed insufficient to meet the squad's needs. However, Roma face competition from Fiorentina, who have reportedly already made initial contact to test the feasibility of a deal. Ruggeri has made his intentions clear: he wishes to remain at Atlético Madrid, and the Spanish club appears unwilling to part with him. Roma nonetheless remain attentive to developments and ready to pursue the opportunity should an opening arise. Gasperini is keen to add immediate, ready-to-use players to elevate Roma's performance and compete for titles immediately. Beyond the left-back search, Roma's summer transfer activity extends across multiple positions. The club continues to monitor various targets as they work toward strengthening the squad ahead of the new season.

Roma and Juventus Chase Atletico Madrid Left-Back Matteo Ruggeri
Transfer NewsSquad News AI
1d ago

Roma and Juventus Chase Atletico Madrid Left-Back Matteo Ruggeri

Roma and Juventus are competing for Atletico Madrid left-back Matteo Ruggeri, who could leave the Spanish club after one season. Atletico Madrid paid €17 million to acquire Ruggeri from Atalanta and are now seeking €28–30 million to sell him, with both Serie A clubs potentially willing to pay €22–25 million including add-ons. The 24-year-old made 47 appearances for Atletico in 2025–26 and registered 6 assists. Roma are prioritizing a new left-back regardless of negotiations with Zeki Celik, whose contract expires on June 30th. Ruggeri fits the club's profile and is familiar with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. The move would provide balance alongside Wesley's aggressive play on the opposite flank. Juventus, meanwhile, are also pursuing other Atletico Madrid targets, including Alexander Sorloth and Nicolas Gonzalez, and are considering fullbacks in case they sell Andrea Cambiaso later in the summer. Atletico Madrid are also exploring alternatives including Marc Cucurella, Maxi Araujo, and Alejandro Grimaldo, suggesting Ruggeri's future remains uncertain. The defender's solid performances have attracted attention, though questions linger over whether his profile precisely matches what either club ultimately requires this summer.

Cult of CalcioRead original →

More on Bryan Zaragoza

Player profile →
Gasperini outlines Roma's Champions League ambitions across three competitions
Transfer NewsClub News AI
5d ago

Gasperini outlines Roma's Champions League ambitions across three competitions

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has made clear his expectations for Roma's upcoming season following the club's return to European football. Gasperini wants to avoid repeating previous mistakes in the transfer market by bringing in players suited to his tactical system. The coach is demanding at least 16 fit outfield players to compete across Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and the Champions League, recognising that European football demands significant physical and mental resources. Several players have already departed or are expected to leave during the transfer window, including Ferguson, Tsimikas, El Shaarawy, Venturino, and Zaragoza, with Baldanzi and Ziolkowski also on their way out. To maintain squad depth and protect key performers from injury during a gruelling season, Gasperini has identified specific targets: a number 10 or attacking midfielder, a deputy to Gianluca Mancini, a striker, and both right and left-sided defenders. Names under consideration include Vlasic and Greenwood, though negotiations remain in early stages. The arrival of D'Amico as sporting director is pending official confirmation, after which the club is expected to accelerate its recruitment strategy. Gasperini's priority is ensuring the squad composition aligns with his playing philosophy, having identified this as the key lesson from the previous season's recruitment process.

Koné attempts recovery with individual training ahead of Verona; Pellegrini remains sidelined
Squad NewsInjury AI
24d ago

Koné attempts recovery with individual training ahead of Verona; Pellegrini remains sidelined

AS Roma has five days to prepare for a crucial Champions League qualification match against Hellas Verona on Sunday at 20:45. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is working to get midfielder Manu Koné fit in time after the French player completed individual field work during training on Tuesday. Koné is considered the injury concern with the best chance of returning for the Verona fixture. However, Gasperini will definitely be without Wesley, who is suspended following a red card in the derby, and Ndicka, who is unavailable for at least a month due to injury. Pellegrini, Venturino, and Zaragoza remain absent from group training and their participation in the away trip to Verona is very unlikely. The injuries have depleted Roma's options as the team pursues the points needed to secure European football next season. Koné's personal training regimen suggests he is being carefully managed ahead of what could be a decisive final match of the campaign.

Squad NewsInjury AI
27d ago

Roma to face Lazio without Pellegrini, Konè, and Venturino in derby

Roma will be without three key players for the upcoming derby against Lazio. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has confirmed that Lorenzo Pellegrini, Konè, and Venturino are unavailable for the match. Konè suffered a muscular problem that forced him to stop training, while the reasons for Venturino's unavailability remain unclear. This follows the earlier announcement that Zaragoza will also miss the derby through injury or suspension. The absences represent a significant blow to Gasperini's squad depth for one of Italian football's most competitive fixtures. Pellegrini, a Rome-born midfielder and club stalwart, is a key figure in Roma's midfield, making his unavailability particularly notable for the derby della Capitale. The multiple injury concerns suggest Roma may need to shuffle their lineup or call upon squad players for the high-stakes encounter. With preparations underway, Gasperini will need to adjust his tactical approach and selections to compensate for these absences. The derby against Lazio remains one of Serie A's most intense rivalries, and managing the squad's fitness and availability will be crucial as Roma prepares for the match.

More on Evan N'Dicka

Player profile →
Roma fans' 'never alone' mantra: N'Dicka's experience with Roma Club Philadelphia
Club News AI
2d ago

Roma fans' 'never alone' mantra: N'Dicka's experience with Roma Club Philadelphia

Roma defender N'Dicka has experienced the club's global supporter network through an encounter with the Roma Club Philadelphia. The article explores how 'mai soli mai' ('never alone never') — a phrase that extends beyond its status as a song — serves as a unifying mantra for Giallorossi supporters worldwide. The Roma Club Philadelphia represents one of many fan organizations that connect Roma supporters across continents, reinforcing the club's international presence and community bonds. N'Dicka's interaction with the Philadelphia-based supporters highlights how current players connect with and appreciate the passion of Roma's diaspora fan base, strengthening ties between the club and its global following.

Tottenham moves for N'Dicka as Roma sets asking price
Transfer NewsSquad News AI
7d ago

Tottenham moves for N'Dicka as Roma sets asking price

Tottenham has made a move to sign Roma defender N'Dicka, with Roma establishing their valuation for the player. The transfer interest comes as Roma's leadership remains focused on other matters, including the pending announcement of Tony D'Amico's appointment. N'Dicka has been a key defensive figure for Roma, and any departure would represent a significant squad change. The asking price set by Roma will determine whether Tottenham proceeds with a formal bid. Details of the specific fee and timeline remain unclear.

Inter target Mancini alongside Koné and N'Dicka from Roma
Transfer NewsSquad News AI
10d ago

Inter target Mancini alongside Koné and N'Dicka from Roma

Inter are continuing to monitor AS Roma players as potential targets for their squad reinforcement. Beyond previously reported interest in Manu Koné and Evan N'Dicka, the Milan club has now set their sights on Gianluca Mancini as a defensive option. Mancini represents another piece of Roma's squad that has attracted attention from rival Serie A clubs. The defender's potential departure would represent a significant loss to Roma's backline, given his established role in the team's defensive structure.

Feedback