Roma continues search for new sporting director; former Udinese figure Giaretta emerges as candidate

Midfielder Manu Kone is attracting intense interest from Europe's top clubs and could depart Roma at the end of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The French international is currently on World Cup duty and recently made his tournament debut in a 3-0 victory over Iraq, displacing Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni from France's starting lineup. His performances have raised his profile significantly, and multiple Premier League and European clubs are monitoring him closely. Roma could reportedly receive at least €50 million from his sale, though the club's need to raise funds through player sales to meet Financial Fair Play requirements makes his departure increasingly likely. Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and several Premier League sides including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur have all entered the race for Kone's signature. Inter previously attempted to sign him last summer but Roma rejected their advances; however, Inter's midfield overhaul—with Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Davide Frattesi expected to leave—could renew their interest. PSG has emerged as a potential destination given Kone's French heritage and his graduation from the Toulouse academy, though breaking into their settled midfield would prove challenging. Premier League clubs possess the financial strength to match Roma's valuation, with Spurs recently enquiring about the midfielder as manager Roberto De Zerbi plans squad reinforcements.

Zaragoza, a Spanish forward who had a brief and largely unsuccessful spell at AS Roma, is set to leave Bayern Munich during the summer transfer window. Bayern are prioritizing other profiles and do not view him as part of their future plans. The player is keen to return to Spain, where former Roma director Monchi—now at Espanyol—has reportedly identified him as a target for the upcoming season. Zaragoza's time at Roma was disappointing, lasting only a few months before the club decided not to exercise their purchase option. His arrival failed to make the expected impact, and he remains owned by Bayern, who are actively seeking buyers. Monchi's interest suggests the Spanish club sees potential to strengthen their squad with added creativity and attacking options. The move remains speculative at this stage, with no formal negotiations reported. Both Zaragoza and Espanyol are exploring options, though the player's transfer depends on Bayern finding a suitable buyer or loan arrangement for him.

AS Roma faces mounting anxiety as the June 30 financial deadline approaches. The club remains under pressure to secure player sales to meet accounting requirements. Matías Soulé and another player are reportedly at risk of departure as Roma searches for the necessary capital gains to close its books. The approaching end of the fiscal year has intensified pressure at the club's training ground, with management exploring potential exits among squad members to balance the books before the deadline.