Roma accelerate pursuit of Napoli sporting director Manna

AS Roma continues its search for a new sporting director ahead of the upcoming season. The club is evaluating several candidates for the role, with Pradè reportedly back in consideration as a possible successor to Massara. Details of the evaluation process and timeline remain unclear, though the Giallorossi are focused on identifying the right candidate to lead the club's sporting operations moving forward.

Several AS Roma players have endured inconsistent seasons and are awaiting clarity on their futures under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. The club remains without concrete plans for the coming transfer window, while Gasperini seeks to establish his technical direction with the ownership and is waiting for a new sporting director to replace Ricky Massara. The coach is reluctant to part with key squad members who have earned his trust but plans targeted additions—between two and four players, preferably three starters—of high quality only. Four players in particular occupy uncertain positions. Polish central defender Jan Ziolkowski showed promise early but has since disappeared from the pitch, leading Roma to consider a sale that could yield a €20 million profit, with interest reportedly coming from Germany and England. Spanish left-back Angelino had a physically troubled season and remains a candidate for departure. Midfielder Neil El Aynaoui performed well until the Africa Cup of Nations but has struggled since returning from Morocco, making his future unclear despite Roma's significant investment. Striker Artem Dovbyk endured a difficult campaign plagued by fitness issues and is expected to drop to reserve status following Donyell Malen's arrival, prompting another summer exit attempt. Meanwhile, Niccolò Pisilli has emerged as increasingly important and has seen his prospects transform accordingly. Gasperini's preference remains for low volume but high-calibre acquisitions, following frustrations with the previous recruitment strategy.

AS Roma are conducting a search to fill the vacant director of sport position for the upcoming season. Giovanni Manna is reportedly the leading candidate, though the club is reviewing several profiles. The role has become available as Ricky Massara's tenure comes to an end, with reports indicating a breakdown in his relationship with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Other names under consideration include D'Amico, Giuntoli, Sogliano, and Paratici. Additionally, Daniele Pradé—who recently departed Fiorentina—has emerged as a candidate. Pradé brings Roma-specific experience, having worked at the club in various roles between 2000 and 2011, including a previous spell as director of sport. The appointment of a new director of sport is expected to play a key role in shaping Roma's squad and strategic direction under Gasperini's management. The timeline for a decision remains unclear, though the club appears to be in active consultation with potential candidates.