Martinelli transfer path remains alive: Arsenal open to sale but wage demands pose obstacle

Roma must quicken their transfer activity with less than two weeks until the Serie A season begins. Head coach Gasperini has signalled urgency to the club following a heavy defeat to Brighton, stating: "Numerically it seems there is still a need for something, but you know how it is." Koné returned to training today and Molina arrived in the capital yesterday, providing important reinforcements, but the coach insists the squad-building remains incomplete. Gasperini has emphasised the need for depth across positions, particularly given Champions League participation: "Having at least two players per role is essential for those competing in cups. Those who don't do it pay heavily." Gasperini's original shopping list comprised a defender, a winger and two forwards. Koulierakis has arrived for defence, Castro for attack, and Molina on the wing—filling three of four targets. The priority now is a second striker. Roma have identified Rodrigo Mora from Porto, with negotiations progressing well; the club hopes to complete that deal in the coming hours. The second gap is at left-back: while Molina covered Çelik's departure on the right, Gasperini needs cover for Wesley on the opposite flank, particularly after losing both Angeliño and Tsimikas from the previous season. Roma are focusing on Alessio Cacciamani and Destiny Udogie, contrasting profiles suited to strengthen the left-back options. The work ahead is significant, and time is running short.

Manu Koné reported back to Roma's Fulvio Bernardini training ground today for medical checks and to resume preparation with the squad following the World Cup. The French midfielder's future remains one of the most sensitive issues on Roma's transfer agenda, though the club's stance has not shifted throughout the summer: Koné has never been officially placed on the market and continues to be viewed as an important player for head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Roma have set a high valuation on the 24-year-old. Any sale would require an offer exceeding €50 million, the club believes. Atlético Madrid tabled a bid of approximately €35 million in late June, which was immediately rejected as too low. Manchester United subsequently showed interest, but Paris Saint-Germain never made a concrete attempt. Koné himself has not openly expressed a desire to leave the capital, with his ties to the Roma environment and the prospect of featuring prominently in the Champions League cited as significant factors. Koné is scheduled to hold talks with Gasperini and club management today to review his international campaign and clarify his role in the new season. Roma's message remains clear: Koné is a key player and the club has no need to sell him. Only an offer deemed impossible to refuse would alter that position.

AS Roma have confirmed the signing of Francesco Ballarin from Venezia on a deal through 2029. The 2009-born midfielder, who won the European Under-17 Championship, will bolster the club's Primavera squad and report immediately to coach Mattia Scala. Ballarin's arrival strengthens Roma's youth development pathway. The club confirmed his capture via social media, welcoming him to the giallorossi colours.