Roma eye Bellanova for wing reinforcement

Ayyoub Bouaddi, a 17-year-old midfielder from Lille, has emerged as a target for multiple elite European clubs following his performances at a recent international tournament, where he was named player of the match in a game against Brazil. Roma has been tracking the Morocco international for several months as a potential replacement should Manu Koné depart the club. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini observed Bouaddi closely during a Europa League match between Roma and Lille at the Olimpico and views him as an ideal successor to Koné. Roma contacted Lille before the end of the domestic season, when the club's valuation stood at €60 million—a figure that could increase in coming weeks. However, the pursuit has become significantly more complicated due to interest from other top clubs. Real Madrid has made inquiries about the prospect, reportedly considering him under manager José Mourinho. Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have also entered the race, creating fierce competition in the transfer market. The signing remains difficult at present given the number of suitors and the rising financial demands.

AS Roma has identified Raoul Bellanova, a 26-year-old left-back, as a target to strengthen their defensive flanks under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Bellanova is available for transfer from Atalanta, where he has been sidelined for much of the second half of the season. Atalanta has set an asking price of €25 million for the Milan-born defender, who is also being tracked by English Premier League side Fulham. Bellanova's profile fits Roma's requirements well. He previously worked under Gasperini at Atalanta and delivered his best season in the neroazzurri shirt during 2024–25, registering 43 appearances with 1 goal and 10 assists across all competitions. Roma's recently appointed director of sport D'Amico previously shared experience with Bellanova at Bergamo, potentially smoothing negotiations. However, relations between the two clubs are reportedly not ideal, which could complicate discussions. Bellanova is one of several reinforcement options Roma is considering as they balance multiple summer priorities, including the high-profile pursuit of Mason Greenwood and addressing an unresolved Settlement Agreement deadline of 30 June. The player's availability in the transfer market and interest from Premier League clubs means competition for his signature remains active.

Manu Koné remains a target for English clubs, with Arsenal reportedly in pole position to sign the Roma midfielder. Two other London-based clubs are also attempting to secure his services. Koné's future at Roma is uncertain and closely tied to the transfer window deadlines. The midfielder's situation depends on Roma's own plans and market movements in the coming weeks.