Roma to face Cardiff City in pre-season friendly on August 1

AS Roma has informed Matías Soulé that he must find a new club in the coming days, effectively ending his time at the Giallorossi after two seasons. The Argentine winger is no longer merely on Roma's transfer list but has been actively told to depart, as head coach Gian Piero Gasperini views him as expendable. Roma is pursuing significant sales to complete UEFA financial compliance by July, with Soulé among the priority departures. The club is targeting Mason Greenwood as a replacement and needs to generate income on the right flank, where Paulo Dybala—close to signing a contract renewal—also operates. Two Saudi Arabian clubs, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad, have emerged as frontrunners for Soulé. Both sides are reportedly prepared to offer around €40 million, Roma's asking price, plus substantial wages for the attacker. Soulé previously rejected a move to Saudi Arabia in 2024. Other interested parties include Borussia Dortmund, Stuttgart, and Aston Villa, though none have made concrete moves beyond initial enquiries. Soulé's representatives are now evaluating the proposals on the table as Roma seeks to conclude his departure within the coming weeks.

Sandro Tovalieri, reached by phone, discussed Roma's transfer activity and Tony D'Amico's involvement in the market. The conversation carried an emotional undertone, as Tovalieri reflected on the recent loss of Igor Protti. D'Amico's actions in the market speak for themselves, according to Tovalieri's remarks. The full details of the transfer discussion and specific players involved remain unclear from the available information.

Serie A's 2026–27 campaign will kick off on Saturday, August 22, with matches scheduled only at 18:30 and 20:45 for the opening two rounds. The league has adopted simplified programming for the first fortnight, with a maximum of two matches running simultaneously to manage the summer heat. Roma will begin their season at the Olimpico against Fiorentina; specific kickoff times and dates will be announced in July. From matchday three onward, the traditional weekend schedule returns. The midday Sunday slot at 12:30 will not be introduced until the fourth round, after the first international break. This staggered approach reflects the league's attempt to balance fixture congestion with player welfare during the hottest months of the year. Meanwhile, Mile Svilar continues preparation for the new campaign, training in the gymnasium even during his vacation period.