Martinelli Rejects Galatasaray, Opening Door for Roma Pursuit

Crysencio Summerville missed a gilt-edged chance on his debut in the Saudi Pro League, blazing over from close range when clean through on goal in what would have been a straightforward finish. The former West Ham forward, who came close to joining Roma in recent weeks before accepting a lucrative move to the Middle East, was visibly frustrated after squandering the opportunity in front of goal. Summerville's misfire came during Al Hilal's 4–2 victory over Al-Faisaly on 14 August. Benzema (penalty), Malcolm and Ruben Neves, who scored twice from the spot, netted the winning goals. The miss has drawn sharp commentary on social media, with supporters suggesting Roma avoided a potential pitfall by not pursuing the deal. The Giallorossi continue to hunt for attacking reinforcements on the wing, with Mora and Fofana among the names under consideration.

The Friedkin Group has taken a direct role in evaluating the financial viability of Roma's pursuit of Rodrigo Mora, a Portuguese prospect born in 2007 regarded as an ideal fit for Gian Piero Gasperini's squad. Mora's family, entourage, and his lawyer have all pushed for a move to Roma, keeping the transfer at the centre of the club's market activity in recent hours. According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, the decision now rests with the American ownership, who are assessing whether the deal can proceed based on cost considerations. The Friedkin Group is currently in close contact with club officials—including D'Amico and Gasperini—and Jorge Mendes, Mora's agent. Mendes maintains contact with Porto, but Roma's ownership is reviewing whether to make a higher offer and accept the terms set by Porto president Villas-Boas. The structure of the deal and its financial implications remain under examination, with the coming hours expected to prove decisive in determining whether Roma will move forward or step back from the operation.

Roma are stepping up efforts to strengthen their midfield wing options, with Tottenham's Udogie emerging as their primary target. The London club have rejected a loan-with-option-to-buy arrangement and are insisting on a mandatory purchase clause instead. Tottenham value the former Udinese player at approximately €25 million, though D'Amico is working to reduce that asking price. Udogie has already given his approval and is keen to return to Serie A. With other targets failing to materialise, Roma have identified the left winger as a key addition to their squad depth. Tottenham's stance on a permanent deal suggests serious intent from both clubs to reach an agreement, provided the financial terms can be bridged. The player's willingness to move back to Italian football strengthens Roma's hand in negotiations.