Pellegrini's commitment to Roma is clear, says Rossomando; Conflitti defends transfer department

Radio commentators have weighed in on Roma's defensive recruitment and tactical priorities this summer. Marcacci told Radio Radio that Koulierakis appears to be the type of tough, no-nonsense defender capable of adapting well to Serie A, adding: "Probably he will start as a backup, but he is a player of greater reliability compared to many others we have seen pass through. With the ball at his feet he is not stronger than Hermoso but he can be more disciplined." Matera, also speaking to Radio Radio, identified a gap in Roma's squad in the left wing role, both for the starting position and the bench. He suggested the club is unwilling to compromise on quality: "The feeling is that Roma do not want to settle for taking players just for the sake of it. Gasperini wants to have level-appropriate alternatives in every role." The assessment reflects head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's approach to squad depth across all positions.

Aldo Maldera, who died some years ago, is remembered as much for his character as for his achievements. A defender of rare humility and tactical intelligence, Maldera joined Roma in summer 1982 under manager Nils Liedholm, who recognized qualities that others believed had already peaked. Playing left-back, Maldera brought experience, tactical awareness, and a cultured left foot to a squad that would become Serie A champions. His equilibrium on the flank allowed the Roma defence to take shape as a historic unit, with his positioning and versatility enabling tactical flexibility elsewhere in the backline. Maldera's legacy at Roma extends beyond his technical gifts. He was reserved, dignified, and loyal—a player who let his work speak rather than seeking the spotlight. He contributed to Roma's 1983 Scudetto with authority, both in defence and in attack, combining defensive solidity with fluid attacking support. Yet his career at Roma carries an enduring regret: his absence from the 1984 European Cup final against Liverpool at the Olimpico due to suspension. Roma supporters have long believed his experience, his left foot from the penalty spot, and his personality might have altered the course of that evening.

Desirée Maldera has shared a deeply personal tribute to her father, Aldo Maldera, reflecting on his profound connection to AS Roma and the lasting impact he left on Italian football. Born and raised in Milan as a champion with AC Milan, Aldo Maldera became a devoted Romanista after meeting his wife Alessandra, a native Roman, and put down roots in the city's heart. Desirée recalls how strangers would stop her father on the street to share their memories of his playing days, yet for her as a child he was simply papà—her refuge and first love. She describes how her understanding of his significance grew with age, transforming from the pain of his absence into profound pride and an endless love. Desirée treasures the affection with which former teammates and rivals remember her father. She mentions that Roberto Pruzzo, Paulo Roberto Falcao, Sebino Nela, Maurizio Iorio, and Carlo Ancelotti have spoken of him with warmth and respect, their words serving as ongoing gifts that keep his memory alive. A sacred memory she holds concerns a dream her father had shortly before his death, in which Agostino Di Bartolomei appeared and said to him: "Aldo, vieni con me" (Aldo, come with me). Desirée has chosen to believe in this vision, finding comfort in imagining her father and the Roma legend together now, smiling and speaking of football and their beloved club.

Lorenzo Pellegrini is on the verge of signing a new contract with Roma after the club revised its initial offer. The Friedkin Group had proposed a one-year deal expiring in June 2027, but Pellegrini sought a three-year commitment. The two parties are now expected to agree on a two-year deal with an option worth €2.5 million per season. Pellegrini has accepted a significant pay cut and awaits final approval from ownership. The midfielder's commitment to Roma has never wavered despite the protracted negotiations, and he remains eager to continue under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Pellegrini did not travel to Cardiff with his squad and is currently training in Rome with a personal physiotherapist as he nears complete recovery from an injury sustained late in the previous season. The contract renewal is expected to be finalised pending the Friedkin Group's definitive sign-off. Once fit, Pellegrini will be available to resume full duties in the 2026–27 campaign.

Lorenzo Pellegrini is awaiting final approval from the Friedkin Group to complete his contract renewal with Roma, with the deal expected to be concluded in the coming days. The captain did not travel to Cardiff with his squad and is continuing his recovery from a late-season injury while training in Rome with a personal fitness coach. According to Il Messaggero, the club's ownership initially proposed a single-year contract extension that would have seen his deal expire in June 2027—a formula the player found unsatisfactory after requesting a three-year deal. The two parties are now close to agreement on a two-year contract with an option valued at €2.5 million per season. Pellegrini has agreed to a significant reduction in his wages and is prepared to return to full availability for the Giallorossi. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is waiting for the midfielder to be ready for action.

Roma are actively negotiating to sign Givairo Read as director Tony D'Amico works across multiple transfer fronts with the season starting in just over three weeks. The Giallorossi are in competition with Nottingham Forest for Read, after reports emerged that the English club had stepped back from an auction-style bidding war being fuelled by Feyenoord. Earlier, D'Amico completed the signing of Koulierakis from Wolfsburg for 16 million euros plus 1.5 million in bonuses and 20 per cent of future sale proceeds. Gasperini has requested at least four reinforcements: two attacking wingers and two defensive full-backs, though a potential departure of Koné would necessitate a direct replacement of equal standing. Nusa remains the primary left-wing target, with discussions ongoing over whether the Norwegian arrival would displace Lorenzo Pellegrini in the squad hierarchy. At centre-forward, Roma have established they can secure both Endrick and Mastantuono following discussions in Madrid on Wednesday. The Brazilian prospect, who would rotate with Paulo Dybala in Gasperini's preferred pairing system, holds the greater appeal. The club is prepared to accelerate a move for Endrick after 15 August, provided Real Madrid agrees to a deal beyond a straight loan, with Matías Soulé potentially playing a balancing role in the squad's finances and formation decisions.