Roma faces pivotal decisions as financial deadline looms; Koné and Soulé under scrutiny over UEFA rules

Roma is preparing for the potential departure of midfielder Manu Koné, who is attracting interest from Arsenal. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has begun identifying replacements, with Lucas Bergvall, a Swedish midfielder from Tottenham, emerging as a primary target. The 18-year-old is valued at approximately €35 million, a significant fee for an outright purchase, but a loan arrangement could prove more feasible given the high cost. Bergvall has expressed a desire to leave Tottenham and compete in the Champions League, making Roma's interest potentially attractive if the club can secure European football. The midfielder represents Gasperini's ambition to strengthen the midfield with Premier League experience. Another candidate under consideration is Matt O'Riley, a Danish midfielder currently at Brighton who spent last season on loan at Marseille. Gasperini is familiar with O'Riley, having monitored him during his time as Atalanta manager. Roma's transfer strategy involves identifying multiple options to reinforce the squad ahead of the new season. The club is actively working to secure Champions League qualification, which would enhance the appeal of any potential move for ambitious players like Bergvall.

Roma are monitoring Leo Ostigard as a defensive reinforcement option. The player has attracted attention from multiple clubs, including Serie A rivals Inter. Ostigard gained prominence during international competition, establishing himself as a prospect in the transfer market. Roma's interest in the defender reflects the club's ongoing efforts to strengthen their backline. Details remain unclear regarding the timeline or terms of any potential move.

AS Roma faces a critical end-of-June financial deadline tied to its settlement agreement with UEFA, but negotiations may allow the club a brief extension into early July. The club must complete player sales in the coming days to meet financial fair play parameters and avoid sanctions when UEFA issues rulings in autumn. Midfielder Moncé Koné and winger Matías Soulé remain the primary targets for sale, with Atlético Madrid expressing interest in Koné—though the player is reluctant about that move. Soulé has attracted attention from Borussia Dortmund in Germany and clubs in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, but no official offers have materialized. Gasperini has retained defender Ndicka and is exploring other defensive targets. Beyond outgoings, contract renewals are also on the agenda. Gianluca Mancini, a key defender, has been waiting to extend his contract for months following a delay after Roma's defeat to Inter. Inter have reportedly made contact for the former Atalanta player, though Mancini's preference remains with Roma. The window for securing these transactions is narrow, though UEFA's apparent flexibility on early-July completions provides some breathing room. The club must balance immediate financial obligations with pursuit of targets like Greenwood, identified as the top attacking priority.