Greenwood Reportedly Preparing to Leave Marseille, Roma in Pursuit

Roma's incoming sporting director Tony D'Amico will need to reinforce the defence alongside the planned attacking overhaul, with the club facing potential squad gaps depending on Ndicka's future. Although the attack is the primary focus—built around Malen and Dybala with Pellegrini in support—the defence will require significant investment. The backline was Roma's strongest asset under Gasperini's management this season, forming the foundation for Champions League qualification, but numerical reinforcement is essential. With Kumbulla set to return, Ziolkowski departing for game time, and Ndicka's status uncertain due to Financial Fair Play concerns, Roma would be left with only four senior centre-backs (Hermoso, Mancini, Ghilardi, and possibly Ndicka) for a demanding season requiring at least two players per position. That would leave two additional defenders short. Several targets have been identified. Oosterwolde is viewed as a promising profile but carries a price tag of €20–25 million, becoming viable mainly if Ndicka departs. Bologna's Lucumì, available on an expiring contract, is another option at roughly €20 million—far lower than Bologna's initial €28 million demand. Solet represents an ideal profile but costs at least €25 million and Inter are already advanced in negotiations. Muharemovic is ready to leave Sassuolo, though domestic competition is driving up his price. Gasperini has been clear that Roma needs experienced, quality defenders—both a high-level starter and a reliable backup.

Roma legend Roberto Pruzzo and commentator Torri have weighed in on the club's current situation. Pruzzo called on sporting director D'Amico to identify the next standout talent, comparing the need to the arrival of Donyell Malen. Torri suggested the coming week could prove decisive for contract renewal negotiations at the Giallorossi. The comments reflect ongoing discussions about Roma's transfer strategy and squad planning as the club balances recruitment with securing key players. Details of specific renewals or targets remain unclear.

Roma are monitoring Baris Alper Yilmaz, the 24-year-old Galatasaray and Turkey winger, as they continue their summer recruitment drive. The player enjoyed an impressive 2024–25 season with 8 goals and 12 assists in the Turkish league. However, Galatasaray has valued him at €45–50 million, making any deal costly. Arsenal have also expressed interest in Yilmaz, which could further inflate his asking price and complicate Roma's pursuit. Yilmaz represents a secondary target as Gasperini prioritises Mason Greenwood for Roma's attack. Greenwood remains the head coach's preferred choice to elevate the team's attacking quality, though his €55 million valuation (including bonuses) presents a significant financial hurdle. Roma are expected to work on bridging the gap in coming weeks while simultaneously exploring alternatives. The club recognises the need to strengthen their attacking options with at least one additional quality winger beyond their existing targets. Yilmaz is regarded as an important, high-quality player with consistent goal-scoring and creative output. Over the past three seasons, he has registered 34 assists alongside his goal tally, establishing himself as a national team regular and crowd favourite at Galatasaray. Details remain unclear on whether Roma will accelerate their interest or maintain focus on Greenwood negotiations.