Roma pursue Endrick but path remains complicated as contacts continue

Roma are increasingly keen on Malick Fofana as a potential attacking reinforcement this summer, with the Lyon winger representing one of their main alternatives after negotiations for Nusa have proven complicated. Lyon value Fofana between €40 and €45 million, a figure Roma currently regard as too high, particularly given concerns about the player's physical condition. However, the French club's asking price could fall in the coming days, depending on their Champions League preliminary round tie against Sparta Prague. Lyon lost the first leg 2-1 to the Czech side; if they fail to qualify for the competition, financial pressure may force them to lower their demands. Fofana came off the bench in that opening fixture, entering at the 75-minute mark. Roma are monitoring developments closely and hope to secure the Belgian forward on more favourable terms once Lyon's European situation becomes clearer. The club's pursuit reflects their cautious approach to the market, balancing their attacking needs against both pricing concerns and doubts surrounding Fofana's fitness.

Roma radio commentators have dissected coach Gian Piero Gasperini's sudden withdrawal from media duties, with speculation linking his frustration to the club's transfer strategy and budget constraints. Matera reported that Gasperini did not attend a scheduled Sky interview after being in contact with the club hierarchy on Thursday, with Ryan Friedkin reportedly in France during the call. Matera noted that until Wednesday evening Gasperini had appeared calm, but something shifted Thursday night: "Gasperini was dedicated to signatures and photographs, something changed Thursday evening, because he did not present himself for the interview." Camelio suggested Gasperini had grown impatient with Roma's handling of summer deals, citing the lack of speed with Bergamo's executives over targets. He argued the club should have prioritized a wide player over centre-forward Artem Castro, pointing out that Dovbyk could have remained on the bench and noting Roma also has Robinio Vaz available. Camelio stated: "I would have gone all-in for the winger instead of taking Castro. Rowe is a player tailor-made for him." He added that Gasperini's silence this summer contrasts sharply with his talkative approach last season about the market, and suggested the club had reduced his salary budget, which irritated him. Marcacci argued that winger candidates may yet emerge from Serie A, naming Rowe and Leao as possibilities. Both commentators agreed that without an arriving winger, Roma would have a significant gap that validates Gasperini's concerns.

Roma have not abandoned their pursuit of Endrick, the Brazilian forward who has been on the club's radar for several days. However, the negotiations remain complex, as the player continues to express his desire to stay at Real Madrid. According to Matteo Moretto, Roma have reaffirmed to Endrick's representatives that their interest is concrete and that they would be ready to make a move with Real Madrid should the player reconsider the possibility of a loan. Gasperini views Endrick as one of his primary targets to strengthen the attack, citing his versatility. The 2006-born forward faces competition from several clubs, including Premier League sides. For now, the situation remains at an impasse, with Endrick having shown no signs of opening the door to another loan move. Roma are keeping a watching brief and standing ready to act should any change in circumstances emerge. The club has made their intentions clear to Endrick's camp, but a breakthrough could come in the coming weeks. Roma will continue to monitor developments while pursuing other options to reinforce their forward line.