Mancini eager for Champions League football at Roma; contract talks ongoing

Neil El Aynaoui featured in all minutes of Morocco's first two World Cup matches and is determined to establish himself as a key midfielder at Roma following an inconsistent start to his Roma career. The midfielder's physical attributes—speed, dynamism, and work rate—align closely with Gasperini's tactical demands of high pressing, quick transitions, and two-phase play. At the World Cup, El Aynaoui ranks in the top five midfielders for tackles won (15) and defensive contributions (16), and dominated against Scotland alongside Saibari. At Roma, El Aynaoui has underperformed relative to his €25 million transfer fee, scoring sparingly despite averaging 8 goals in 24 appearances for Lens. His Roma struggles partly stem from Gasperini's tactical instructions to drop deeper for build-up play rather than push forward, where he was most dangerous at his previous club. Niccolò Pisilli is also expected to develop further in midfield, and the club may keep Manu Koné—despite interest from Arsenal, Tottenham, and Chelsea—to avoid excessive squad churn in that department. Gasperini expects a marked improvement from El Aynaoui and Pisilli as Roma aims to have four reliable starting midfielders for both Serie A and Champions League competition. El Aynaoui must regain the confidence and creative boldness he displays with Morocco, where he plays alongside the technically proficient Bouaddi. Ricky Massara assured supporters last summer: "He's strong, you will see."

Fenerbahce has submitted a new offer to Marseille for Mason Greenwood, reportedly worth €35 million plus €5 million in bonuses, as the Turkish club refuses to abandon its pursuit of the English forward. Despite the political upheaval surrounding a recent presidential election at the Istanbul club, Fenerbahce remains committed to securing Greenwood's signature and is continuing negotiations with Marseille. Roma is also pursuing the player and has already reached an agreement with Greenwood on personal terms, offering him a contract worth €4.5 million per season. Gasperini considers Greenwood the ideal profile to strengthen Roma's attack, and the Giallorossi are preparing a decisive move with support from Tony D'Amico. However, Marseille's valuation remains high—substantially elevated by the 40 percent sell-on clause owed to Manchester United. The French club is demanding around €50 million, a figure that far exceeds Fenerbahce's initial offer. Roma must now accelerate their efforts to secure what would be their first major signing for the Champions League campaign. The competition between the two clubs for Greenwood's signature is intensifying, with continuous contact maintained between Fenerbahce and Marseille.

Lorenzo Pellegrini and Gianluca Mancini, two of Roma's key figures, were seen together during an outing in Ibiza. The sighting comes amid ongoing speculation about contract renewals for both players. The pair reportedly made those present feel welcomed, with the encounter described as memorable. The timing of the meeting has fueled discussion among Roma supporters about whether developments regarding their contract situations may be imminent. Both players remain central to the club's plans going forward.

Lorenzo Pellegrini and Gianluca Mancini, two of Roma's key figures, were seen together during an outing in Ibiza. The sighting comes amid ongoing speculation about contract renewals for both players. The pair reportedly made those present feel welcomed, with the encounter described as memorable. The timing of the meeting has fueled discussion among Roma supporters about whether developments regarding their contract situations may be imminent. Both players remain central to the club's plans going forward.

Gianluca Mancini has confirmed that AS Roma are in talks with him over a contract renewal. Speaking to Sky Sport, the defender expressed disappointment at Italy's absence from the World Cup, but stated his focus remains on his club future rather than dwelling on the international tournament. Mancini is a key player in Roma's defence and contract negotiations represent an important development for the club as they seek to secure one of their most reliable defensive options. His commitment to resolving his situation with the Giallorossi suggests continuity in the squad under current management.

Inter have maintained their interest in Roma center-back Evan Ndicka as a potential replacement for Stefan de Vrij, according to reports. The Ivorian defender remains on Inter's shortlist alongside Udinese's Oumar Solet, with whom the Nerazzurri have reportedly reached a verbal agreement. De Vrij's contract at San Siro expires within two weeks, and despite being sidelined last season under Cristian Chivu, Inter could still offer him a short-term extension, though the defender has been reluctant to commit. Ndicka has become one of Roma's most dependable defenders since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt in summer 2023, forming a strong partnership with Gianluca Mancini at the heart of the Giallorossi defense. The 26-year-old's contract runs through 2028, meaning Roma are unlikely to sell cheaply. Inter may need to pay a fee exceeding €25 million to secure his services. His potential arrival would address depth concerns, particularly if Inter experience further departures from their defensive lineup.