Molina completes Roma move; Udogie fuels transfer speculation with cryptic social media post

Roma have completed the signing of Molina from Atlético Madrid. The Argentine defender has already given his first interview as a Roma player as the club continues its summer transfer activity. Roma's transfer window has entered a critical phase as head coach Gian Piero Gasperini prepares his squad for the 2026–27 season, with a return to the Champions League the stated objective. The Friedkin Group are working to assemble a competitive roster to support the Italian coach's ambitions for the campaign ahead. Molina's arrival adds depth to Roma's defensive options as the club balances its squad requirements heading into the new season.

Roma and Porto are locked in a standoff over the transfer of midfielder Mora. The clubs have agreed on the deal structure but remain at odds over the terms. Roma has proposed an initial loan of €7–8 million with a right of purchase set at €42–43 million, which would become an obligation to buy if certain conditions are met. Roma wants to include a clause based on 60 per cent of appearances and qualification to the next Champions League, while Porto is seeking stronger guarantees and more favourable conditions. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is waiting for the 2007-born trequartista, whom the club hopes to mould in the image of Paulo Dybala. Mora endured an inconsistent season at Porto, with transfer rumours linking him to Saudi Arabia and the tactical system under his previous coach not fully utilising his strengths. Under that manager, Mora was often pushed back into midfield to start play, a role that significantly limited his effectiveness in the attacking third.

Nahuel Molina has joined Roma and presented himself to the club's official channels, expressing his excitement at the move. "From the first moment they made me feel at home and I am very happy," Molina said. "I think it is a very great club, with really passionate fans. The squad is strong and in recent years has done great things." He will wear number 20, explaining: "It is a new beginning. I liked the number 20 and it was free." On his versatility, Molina added: "I feel comfortable playing further forward or starting from a more withdrawn position. It will depend on the manager." Meanwhile, Roma's pursuit of Porto winger Rodrigo Mora has hit complications. Roma believed it had closed the deal after its latest official offer, with agreement reached on most aspects, but Porto president André Villas-Boas has requested modifications to the terms after reviewing details brought by Jorge Mendes, particularly regarding the final figure of the mandatory buyout clause. Clubs remain in contact to overcome the remaining obstacle. Roma's move for Inter's Luis Henrique has stalled entirely. While Inter are willing to let him leave, the Brazilian has not given his approval. Economic distance and doubts about the Roma project weigh on his decision, and without him reducing his demands, the operation remains frozen.