Marseille parts ways with sporting director Benatia; Roma reportedly interested

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini expressed optimism about Paulo Dybala's contract renewal talks with Roma, stating that both the club and player share the same vision. Gasperini emphasized Roma's appetite for victory ahead of the derby against Lazio, saying the team is motivated enough to play at any time. He highlighted the importance of Friedkin Group ownership's active involvement at the club, noting: "It is fundamental when the ownership is present — everything works better: there is less gossip and more opportunity for direct relationships without intermediaries. I hope we can now accelerate negotiations with the agents." The coach acknowledged this applies particularly to Dybala's representatives. Roma's preparation for the derby has been complicated by a muscle problem sustained by midfielder Koné, who will be assessed before the match. If Koné is unavailable, Gasperini may deploy three midfielders together, with El Aynaoui and Pisilli in central midfield alongside Cristante operating between centre-midfielder and attacking midfielder roles. Despite already securing European League football, Gasperini stressed the importance of maintaining hunger and ambition. The team will continue to rely on the attacking partnership between Dybala and Donyell Malen.

AS Roma are monitoring Pisa winger Touré as a potential summer signing to strengthen their full-back options, according to reports. However, Roma face significant competition for the German defender, with Serie A rivals Napoli and Inter also tracking the player. Bologna and Welsh club Wrexham, owned by actor Ryan Reynolds, have also entered the race for his signature. Touré was one of the few bright spots in Pisa's disappointing Serie A campaign, which ended in immediate relegation after just one season. Roma's interest in recruiting for the flanks reflects broader squad planning ahead of the transfer window. With Wesley appearing to be the only guaranteed starter at full-back, the club has prioritised identifying new wide options as one of several areas requiring reinforcement. The timing of Roma's search comes amid ongoing uncertainty over their sporting structure, with the club still seeking a new director of sport following reports that Massara is set to leave. The market for Touré remains open, with multiple clubs vying for his services. Roma's pursuit is part of a wider summer overhaul, though significant decisions about the club's direction remain pending as the season concludes. The club face crucial final matches against Lazio in the Derby della Capitale and Verona that could determine their Champions League qualification prospects.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed confidence that Paulo Dybala will sign a contract extension with Roma, citing positive intentions from both the player and the club's ownership. Speaking in a pre-derby press conference, Gasperini outlined his belief that renewal talks are progressing well across several squad members whose contracts are expiring. Beyond Dybala, the club is also working on extensions for Lorenzo Pellegrini and Çelik, who are among Roma's departing players. Gasperini emphasized the importance of mutual agreement between the ownership and players in securing renewals. "When there is willingness from both parties, a solution can be found," he stated. The coach also praised the professionalism and loyalty shown by the players involved in negotiations, describing their willingness to stay as "a great sign of attachment to Roma and professionalism." Having initially seemed distant, the renewal scenario for Dybala has shifted toward an extension, which would satisfy Gasperini's objectives for squad stability. The Roma ownership is reportedly making resolving these contract situations a priority, according to the manager. Gasperini noted that having multiple key players available to negotiate with rival clubs could have posed significant complications for the club, but the players' commitment has eased that risk and demonstrates their dedication to the Giallorossi.