Matt O'Riley in Roma's sights: profile, statistics, and why Gasperini likes him

AS Roma has agreed terms with Cagliari for the departure of midfielder Alessandro Romano. The deal will deliver €5 million in fixed fees plus performance-related bonuses, potentially reaching €6.5 million total. Roma initially sought €7–8 million for the 20-year-old Swiss player, so the agreement represents a modest financial gain on the capital gains front with just four days remaining before the June 30 deadline. Romano, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Spezia, will now move to his first full Serie A campaign at Cagliari. The transfer offers Roma a welcome influx of funds as the club manages its financial position ahead of the financial year close. The move allows the youngster regular first-team football at Serie A level following his development in the second division. Details remain unclear on the structure of the bonus payments or the exact conditions for achieving the additional €1.5 million.

Lorenzo Pellegrini's contract renewal with AS Roma has stalled as the club focuses on other pressing matters. The captain visited Trigoria on the day of director D'Amico's official appointment to discuss an extension, but no meeting is currently scheduled between the parties to finalise an agreement. Roma's leadership is concentrating efforts elsewhere at present, with the renewal talks likely to resume from 1 July, when Pellegrini technically becomes available as a free agent. Meanwhile, Paulo Dybala and Celik are reportedly closer to securing new deals. The 30 June deadline looms large for the club, with D'Amico juggling the Settlement Agreement alongside multiple contract negotiations. Pellegrini's situation reflects Roma's current strategic priorities as the transfer window heats up and the club reshapes its squad under new management. The timing suggests negotiations may accelerate once the calendar turns to July, potentially opening fresh momentum for the 7's extension after the initial groundwork was laid during D'Amico's arrival.

Roma is accelerating efforts to reinforce its midfield ahead of the upcoming season. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has identified Freuler as a target to bolster the squad's options in the centre. The move is being considered as part of broader squad adjustments, though details remain unclear on the player's availability, fee structure, or timeline. Strengthening midfield depth is a priority for the club as it prepares for the new campaign.