Soulé at crossroads: on-pitch redemption or sale for financial reasons

Ismael Koné, the Sassuolo midfielder who has been linked with AS Roma, has declined to commit to any club for next season. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Koné remained noncommittal about his future, saying: "Where will I play next year? I'm being honest: I don't know. Let's see what happens, but I'm focused on what I need to do. I'm happy to be at Sassuolo and the club's trust in me. Then there's the World Cup." Koné has attracted attention from multiple Serie A sides during the season, with Roma reportedly considering him as a potential replacement should Manu Koné depart in the summer transfer window. The Canadian midfielder has been one of the standout performers in a Sassuolo side competing in Serie A's closing stages. His performances have drawn interest from several clubs, though he has chosen to keep his options open rather than signal any preference or agreement at this stage. Koné's reluctance to discuss specifics reflects the typical approach taken by players in high-demand positions during the final weeks of a season. His focus remains on Sassuolo's remaining fixtures and the international calendar beyond the domestic campaign.

Roma commentators and former players debated the club's direction and summer strategy on Roman radio stations. Piero Torri stated that head coach Gian Piero Gasperini considers the squad strong and has requested three signings to supplement Donyell Malen and Wesley. Torri said: "Gasperini considers this squad strong and asks for three signings alongside Malen and Wesley. If the Friedkins confirm their confidence and listen to Gasperini, there will be no revolution. Next season has already begun: who is planning it? D'Amico and Manna have ongoing contracts and must be freed up. Roma is not inferior to Juventus." Riccardo Trevisani acknowledged Roma's squad contains quality players but noted that replacements are less capable. Roberto Pruzzo highlighted the importance of alignment between Gasperini and the sporting directors, warning that disagreement over transfer strategy poses a significant risk. Nando Orsi referenced the American ownership model's approach to managerial changes, drawing parallels to the departures of Daniele De Rossi, José Mourinho, and Claudio Ranieri, describing it as a mindset unfamiliar to Italian football culture. Lorenzo Pes suggested Gasperini works with approximately 15 core players and needs 22–23 total. Players potentially departing include Mandas Ndicka and Mady Koné. Matías Soulé's status remains uncertain due to ongoing issues with pubalgia.

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.