Roma pursue Champions League with attacking trio and El Aynaoui in midfield

AS Roma has signalled its intention to close the first half of the transfer window without selling key players, according to reports emerging from the club's Trigoria base. The Friedkin Group is unwilling to dismantle the squad's core to satisfy UEFA financial requirements, and has instructed officials to reject offers deemed insufficient. The club will only consider departures if genuinely unmissable bids arrive; otherwise, no established players will be sold. Roma believes it can present a balanced budget to UEFA in June while retaining its main contingent. The club has already generated approximately 13 million euros in capital gains, reduced operational costs, and expects increased revenue from overseas broadcast rights. Additional financial relief may come from the situations surrounding players Bove and Calafiori. Officials, including D'Amico, have made clear that no player will depart at discount prices. Roma is prepared to accept potential sanctions—including a fine or restrictions on squad registration for European competitions in the following season—rather than compromise squad stability, viewing this as preferable to harsher UEFA penalties.

Ivan Juric has been confirmed as Monza's new head coach from 1 July 2026, following the club's promotion to Serie A via the play-offs. The Croatian tactician arrives after stints with Atalanta, Southampton, and Roma, where his tenures were described as disappointing. Monza will visit the Olimpico to face Roma on the weekend of 28–29 November in Serie A matchday 13, marking Juric's return to the stadium. Juric's appointment carries direct significance for Roma, as he previously managed the Giallorossi. His track record includes spells at Genoa, Hellas Verona, and Torino before joining Roma. At Atalanta, he made his Champions League debut with the club, appearing in four matches before his dismissal in November 2025. The timing of his move to Monza ensures an early encounter between his new side and his former employer in the league campaign. Born in Split on 25 August 1975, Juric began his managerial career in Serie C with Mantova in 2014–15, then achieved promotion to Serie A with Crotone in his first Serie B season. He is described as a coach of significant charisma and experience, capable of bringing intensity and an aggressive, enterprising style of play to his teams.

Serie A has announced the fixture list for the first five rounds of the 2026–27 season, with Roma set to begin their campaign on a Monday. The article reviews Roma's previous Monday season openers, examining a mix of victories, defeats, and notable incidents including a 3–0 walkover decision. Monday starts carry varied historical significance for the Giallorossi across their recent Serie A campaigns. The fixture scheduling marks the beginning of Roma's push under their new management structure heading into the new season.

Roma are preparing to formally submit an offer for Mason Greenwood this week. Head coach Gasperini has held direct talks with the Marseille winger, discussing his tactical demands. When asked by Gasperini, "Are you ready to run?", Greenwood reportedly responded positively in Italian: "Yes I'm ready, I'll come to score many goals." Greenwood's father, who acts as his agent, was present during the conversation. The player has signalled his willingness to wait for Roma's official proposal. Gasperini is also monitoring other targets. Nicolò Tresoldi of Bruges has agreed in principle to join Roma; the move could be structured as a loan with a purchase option, though Dovbyk's departure would need to be finalized first. Meanwhile, Rafa Leão has been offered to Roma. The Milan winger, who has confirmed his desire to leave after seven seasons, could arrive on loan with a high buyout clause attached. In midfield, if either Koné or El Aynaoui depart for the Premier League, Roma are considering Timber of Marseille as a replacement option. Roma's new kit is already selling outside Italy ahead of the official launch.

Manchester United has expressed strong interest in signing Roma midfielder El Aynaoui, according to recent reports. The English club has made contact with Roma's management, but the Italian club has signalled that €30 million may not be enough to secure the player's departure. Roma views El Aynaoui as a key asset and has no intention of offering a discount on any transfer fee. El Aynaoui's market value has risen considerably following his impressive performances at the World Cup with Morocco, where he became a regular starter from the opening match. Beyond Manchester United, other European clubs including Barcelona, Everton, and Liverpool have also shown interest. Roma's position is firm: the club does not wish to sell the midfielder after just one season, viewing him as an integral part of their project moving forward. El Aynaoui himself is keen to demonstrate his abilities in his second year under the guidance of head coach Gasperini, having established himself as a cornerstone of Roma's midfield. The player's World Cup success and Roma's reluctance to part with him have combined to strengthen his negotiating position, putting pressure on interested suitors to match the club's valuation if they wish to proceed.

Neil El Aynaoui continues to draw interest from major European clubs following a strong World Cup performance. Roma has responded by taking a firm stance to protect the player amid widespread transfer speculation. The defender's form at international level has made him a target for several top European sides. Details remain unclear regarding the specific clubs involved or the exact nature of Roma's resistance to potential offers.