Roma eyeing South American defensive reinforcements with interest in Lautaro Rivero

Midfielder Manu Koné delivered an impressive World Cup debut for France against Iraq, dominating the centre of the pitch with quality, intensity, and defensive work. The match was suspended for nearly two hours due to lightning and storms, but Koné maintained his high performance throughout all 90 minutes. He made six ball recoveries and completed 92% of his passes, including 94% accuracy in his own half, showcasing the defensive and rhythmic qualities that define his play. His performance has drawn worldwide attention and strengthened his reputation as a key midfielder. Koné's standout display comes at a critical moment for Roma, which needs to generate significant transfers before 30 June. The club hopes to secure at least 50 million euros from selling the French midfielder, with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Atlético Madrid reportedly interested. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini values Koné's intensity and defensive presence for his tactical system, but high-profile World Cup performances typically increase a player's appeal to elite clubs and could drive up demands beyond Roma's initial asking price. An alternative source of funds would be selling Matías Soulé, which could allow Koné to remain in Rome. Gasperini has shown he wants to build his midfield around Koné, particularly with Champions League football on the horizon.

Roma's new sporting leadership has begun its transfer window work with two primary objectives. Paulo Dybala is close to signing a new contract after discussions over fixed wages and performance-related bonuses. Roma has proposed terms worth approximately 2.5 million euros plus bonus payments tied to on-field performance, though the Argentine forward is seeking a higher figure. Dybala awaits a call from Tony D'Amico to schedule a meeting with his agent Carlos Novel to narrow the gap and finalize the renewal. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's dream target is Mason Greenwood, and Roma is preparing its opening offer to Marseille for the English attacker. An agreement over wages — reported at around five million euros annually — has reportedly been reached with Greenwood's representatives. However, Marseille remains the significant obstacle, maintaining a valuation of 50 million euros with no indication of lowering their asking price. D'Amico arrived in Rome on Sunday evening and was at the Trigoria training ground alongside Gasperini on Monday, signaling the intensity of the club's summer planning. Additionally, Roma is addressing contract matters involving other squad members, with the situations of Çelik and Pellegrini also under discussion as part of the broader transfer strategy.

Roma's new sporting director D'Amico began his tenure on an intense day at Trigoria, meeting with head coach Gasperini to discuss an urgent transfer strategy. The club faces a deadline of 30 June to meet Financial Fair Play obligations under a UEFA settlement agreement, requiring the sale of several players to generate significant capital gains. Midfielder Manu Koné remains at the top of Roma's departure list, with the club willing to accept Atlético Madrid's offer of 45 million euros (Roma's asking price is 50 million). However, Koné has put the Spanish club's proposal on hold while waiting for Arsenal, with whom his representatives reportedly have an agreement. The player is currently with the French national team in America. Roma has reportedly grown frustrated with Arsenal's slow approach and has pressed Koné's agents to either accelerate negotiations or reconsider Atlético's bid. Smaller transfers, such as Romano's reported move towards Palermo, are also progressing but will not be sufficient to meet the financial targets alone. The club believes securing a major sale in the coming week is essential to satisfy settlement agreement requirements by month's end.