Foti reflects on Roma tenure under Mourinho, reveals role in Dybala chant

Donyell Malen, Roma's forward, failed to score across three group-stage matches at the World Cup with the Netherlands, a significant drop from his impressive form with the club. The player was shifted to the right wing during the tournament as fellow striker Brobbey scored three goals. Former Inter manager Frank De Boer analysed Malen's difficulties, tracing the root of his struggles to a friendly match against Algeria at the De Kuip stadium. De Boer explained that Malen did not play poorly in the group stage, including against Tunisia, where he remained active and unlucky in the final minutes. However, the Dutch legend believes a critical turning point came earlier. De Boer stated: "Everything started with the wasted opportunity against Algeria at the De Kuip. It seems to torment him a bit, it seems he's thinking too much. It would have been nice if he'd scored two goals now. But he didn't play badly." The analysis suggests Malen's lack of goals stems from a mental block rather than tactical or physical issues. De Boer implied that the forward's confidence may have been shaken by the missed chances in the Algeria friendly, affecting his performance throughout the tournament. His return to Roma and prospects for regaining form remain to be seen.

French football legend Vieira has praised Manu Koné following his performances at the international tournament, notably his display against Norway. Vieira ranked Koné above fellow French midfielders Tchouameni and Rabiot, citing his aggressive play and ball-winning ability. Vieira stated: "He is the best midfielder in France right now for me. I would put him ahead of Tchouameni and Rabiot because he moves more in midfield. He is aggressive, wins lots of balls, breaks the lines, he has something more than the others. Tchouameni sometimes plays the ball backwards too much, he plays it forwards." Koné's strong international performances have not gone unnoticed, with Roma intent on keeping their midfielder despite interest from other clubs. Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly tracking the French midfielder, though he has already declined an approach from Paris Saint-Germain. Roma are reluctant to sell Koné, viewing him as a key player in their midfield setup under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. His performances come after a season interrupted by injuries, yet he has now established himself as a regular starter for France.

Roman radio stations aired commentary from journalists and former players on Roma's transfer plans and squad prospects. A central theme was whether the club would sell key players during the summer window. Piero Torri from Radio Manà Manà stated: "There is the possibility that Roma does not sell anyone," while also commenting on midfielder Koné's recent performance for France. Mateo De Santis raised concerns about contract negotiations, noting that Pellegrini's representatives have not been in contact with Roma despite the player and his assistant wanting to renew. "Their contract expires in three days," De Santis warned, highlighting the urgency of discussions. He also indicated that winger Soulé does not want to move to Saudi Arabia and that movement around midfielder Koné could still occur, questioning the value of the Settlement Agreement if it is not respected. Legend Roberto Pruzzo expressed optimism about Malen's return, saying the winger "cannot wait to come back to Trigoria" and suggesting he will arrive more motivated. Pruzzo noted that Malen's role became clearer during his Roma spell compared to his use with the Netherlands. Fellow commentator Nando Orsi suggested Malen may be managing physical fatigue after a demanding season and cautioned against viewing the situation as a crisis, observing that his current campaign has established him as a key player.

Transfer analyst Alfredo Pedullà has outlined Roma's activity across several key areas of the squad. Paulo Dybala is close to signing a new contract, with Gasperini prioritizing the renewal. Celik's situation is reportedly almost finalized, while a further meeting is needed to resolve Lorenzo Pellegrini's terms. Pedullà confirmed that Koné's agent has communicated directly to Roma: "No to speculation, there must not be intermediaries, people bringing offers. I am the agent and I will bring the offers." Roma values the midfielder at a minimum of €45 million including bonuses, though the situation could shift rapidly. On the attacking front, Greenwood is on Gasperini's list but is not the only target under consideration. Pedullà emphasized there is no active negotiation or meeting yet scheduled, suggesting Roma is exploring options quietly. Other names under review remain unconfirmed, while Paixao, Nusa, and others have been ruled out. The club is conducting business away from public scrutiny across recruitment priorities, with potential developments in Matías Soulé's situation also possible. The renewal of Dybala and acquisition of attacking reinforcements represent key priorities as Gasperini shapes his squad.

Roma's summer transfer activity is intensifying, with multiple moves in development. Lorenzo Pellegrini's contract renewal is not currently a priority for the club; while the midfielder visited the training ground on Monday to discuss an extension, any formal negotiation with the board will not take place until July. The focus instead shifts to Paulo Dybala, whose renewal is progressing and drawing closer to completion, bolstered by head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's backing. The Friedkin Group aims to finalize Dybala's new deal by 30 June. Meanwhile, Alessandro Romano's departure has been confirmed: the 2006-born midfielder will join Cagliari for a reported 5 million euros plus performance-based bonuses that could reach 6.5 million, with a conditional purchase obligation clause included. The Romano transfer provides financial relief ahead of Roma's 30 June accounting deadline. Real Betis has also reportedly tabled an offer of 15 million euros for an unnamed Roma player involving a loan with a purchase option, though details remain unclear.

Paulo Dybala is on the verge of signing a new contract with AS Roma. The Argentine forward has consistently expressed his desire to remain with the club, and head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has backed the renewal in recent weeks. The Friedkin Group ownership is now on board and aims to finalize the deal before the June 30 deadline, pending only their final approval. Dybala's commitment to Roma reflects the club's broader summer activity. Alongside the midfielder's contract situation, defender Zeki Celik is also close to an official announcement. Lorenzo Pellegrini's new contract discussions are expected to take place in early July, following his current deal's expiration. The club is working to secure its key players as it prepares for the upcoming season under Gasperini's stewardship. The renewal represents continuity for Roma's attacking core and underscores the fresh direction under the current coaching and ownership setup. All parties—player, coach, and owners—appear aligned on keeping the forward at the Stadio Olimpico.