Empoli accelerates push for Riccardo Pagano with permanent deal

Riccardo Pagano is poised to leave Roma permanently, with Empoli leading the chase to sign the midfielder on a definitive transfer. The Serie B club want to beat rival suitors to the 2004-born player, who is under contract at Roma until 2027. As part of the deal, Roma would retain a sell-on percentage from any future resale. Pagano, a midfielder recently relegated to Serie C with Bari, is now set to drop to Serie B level rather than remain at Roma. The move forms part of the Giallorossi's wider outgoings, which chiefly involve younger squad members being moved on. This exit phase sits alongside Roma's transfer activity on the inbound side, where Summerville is drawing closer and the club has begun scouting replacements for Zeki Çelik. Padova and Sudtirol are also monitoring Pagano's situation, though Empoli's formal approach to secure a permanent deal gives them the advantage in negotiations.

Roma are searching for a new right-back following Zeki Çelik's departure, with sporting director D'Amico preparing a shortlist of candidates. El Ouadhi is among the targets, along with Molina and Dodô. The winger represented Morocco at the World Cup, making a single appearance in the quarter-final against France. Genk value him at approximately €15 million, though Roma have not yet submitted an official offer. El Ouadhi remains on D'Amico's radar as the club prioritises resolving attacking additions first. Roma's immediate focus is on completing the transfer of Summerville, which must be concluded before the Çelik replacement operation can advance further.

Zeki Çelik has joined Juventus, leaving AS Roma to rue a failed verbal agreement over a contract renewal. The defender's departure to the Turin club prompted comment from Luciano Spalletti, the former Roma head coach, who spoke in a press conference about the Turkish full-back's qualities. Spalletti said: "Çelik is a player of character, reliable. With a warrior's character. I think it was a good idea for Juventus to bring him in. He will certainly have no problems settling in; he is an experienced player, a very good lad that everyone in football knows. He will integrate easily." Roma had been working toward keeping Çelik at the Stadio Olimpico on revised terms, but the move collapsed and Juventus capitalised on the opportunity. Spalletti, who managed Roma until recently, also commented on Massara's work in the transfer market, stating: "I have worked with him and know his top level as a director."