Questions raised over Wesley and Bailey transfer dealings involving agent Pietro Scala

Roma's search for a new sporting director has encountered a significant obstacle. Manna, the Napoli sporting director who had emerged as the leading candidate for the role, will not be released by Napoli in the near term. The delay marks a sharp reversal for what had appeared to be Roma's strongest option, though it remains unclear whether this represents a temporary slowdown or a permanent end to the pursuit. Roma's management is planning for the future and faces the critical task of appointing a new sporting director among several key decisions. Until recently, Manna appeared set to move to the Giallorossi, but Napoli has blocked his departure. The setback leaves considerable uncertainty about the direction of Roma's sporting hierarchy, with time passing as the club seeks clarity on its leadership structure. Other names remain under consideration, including Tony D'Amico, who is set to leave Atalanta, though Atalanta has identified Cristiano Giuntoli as his replacement. With multiple candidates in discussion but limited clarity on the final decision, details remain unclear regarding when Roma will finalize its choice for the sporting director position.

An investigation by Italian television programme Report has examined several AS Roma transfer operations from the 2025 season. The inquiry focuses on moves involving Ryan Friedkin and an individual named Scala, with scrutiny on the club's summer market activity. Details remain unclear regarding the specific findings and any implications for the club's operations.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini addressed questions about his relationship with agent-intermediary Pietro Scala during a press conference. Gasperini clarified his role and responsibilities within the club structure, emphasizing that he concentrates on technical and tactical decisions rather than contractual or negotiation matters. Gasperini stated: "I do not participate in the drafting of contracts nor in negotiations; I am the least suited person to speak about them." The coach's comments reflect the clear separation of duties between the coaching staff and the administrative and commercial branches of AS Roma. This distinction is important as it underscores how the Friedkin Group's management structure operates, with Gasperini focused solely on team selection, tactics, and football-related decisions. The remarks came as part of Gasperini's regular media duties, where he was asked to comment on the agent's involvement with the club. By limiting his response to the technical aspects of his role, Gasperini reinforced that contract negotiations and agent relationships fall outside his purview. This approach is consistent with his appointment as sole person responsible for team matters since taking charge in 2025.