Roma have the garnish but lack the main course, says Torri

Gian Piero Gasperini cancelled a scheduled interview with Sky Sport on 7 August, declining to discuss Roma's transfer activity and the club's pre-season training camp in Wales. Instead, the coach held a meeting with Roma's ownership at their Hensol resort base, focusing on the status of ongoing negotiations. The gathering included CEO John Galantic and centred on contract renewals, inbound moves, and player departures. Two deals were discussed: Lorenzo Pellegrini has formally agreed to renew his contract for one season, but paperwork remains unsigned. The Molina transfer is reportedly agreed in all its aspects but awaits a final procedural step. Gasperini's decision to skip the media appearance reflects the urgency of Roma's summer business with less than three weeks until Fiorentina visit the Olimpico for Serie A's opening day on 24 August. The club needs to accelerate its market activity, and the coach appears determined to prioritise action over words. Roma departed Wales for England on 7 August afternoon. Fans will next hear from Gasperini after Brighton's match against Roma, though the reference to waiting for Godot suggests uncertainty around whether clarity will then arrive.

Lorenzo Pellegrini has made a significant gesture towards AS Roma by signalling his willingness to renew his contract, accepting terms for a single year—potentially with an option for a second year subject to certain conditions. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has been instrumental in keeping lines of communication open with the midfielder, consistently expressing his desire to continue working with Pellegrini in his second season at the club. The two remain in regular contact. Roma's board has long delayed formal action on a renewal offer, but is now prepared to present an official proposal to the player. As of the evening of 6 August, no official offer had yet been formally submitted. Pellegrini's willingness to accept a reduced contract term reflects his commitment to remaining in the Giallorossi colours, despite the protracted nature of negotiations over the summer. Gasperini's backing has been crucial to narrowing the gap between the club and its captain, signalling that Pellegrini remains central to the coach's plans.

Roma are prioritizing Lyon winger Fofana as their main left-flank target, with head coach Gasperini backing the Belgian's profile. Sporting director D'Amico is pressing ahead in the transfer market after securing defender Molina, but Fofana's €45 million valuation brings caution: he missed significant time last season following an ankle injury sustained a year ago. Medical reports are encouraging, though Roma want full clarity before committing such an investment. RB Leipzig's Nusa, another attacking option, faces a steeper path to a deal after the Norwegian stated yesterday: "I have never expressed the desire to leave Leipzig." Real Madrid have offered to loan Endrick to Roma, who want to include a buyout clause modelled on the Nico Paz arrangement. The Brazilian could operate anywhere across the attacking line regardless of any potential departure by Soulé. Pellegrini's contract renewal also remains a priority.