Roma Target Martinelli Omitted from Arsenal's Community Shield Squad

Nahuel Molina made a strong impression in his first appearance for Roma, featuring for over half an hour in a 2–2 friendly against Borussia Dortmund. The Argentine full-back, who joined from Atlético Madrid for 13 million euros plus 4 million in add-ons, demonstrated his attacking thrust, intensity, ball control, and defensive aggression. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini identified him as the right player to elevate Roma's play on the flanks and bring additional international experience ahead of the club's return to the Champions League. Molina's solid performance at Dortmund surprised some Atlético supporters, many of whom had welcomed his departure after inconsistent form in recent seasons. The display prompted reactions on social media, with some observers drawing comparisons to legendary full-back Cafu and questioning why Molina had not performed at this level for Atlético. One fan wrote: "He left Atlético and became Cafu." Another asked: "Now he plays well?" A third joked: "It's clear that Madrid's water did him no good." The comments reflected a mix of irony and mild regret among the Spanish club's fanbase.

Roma's pursuit of Portuguese talent Rodrigo Mora has stalled, with Porto holding firm on their position while Roma maintains its stance. The player wants to move to Italy, but Porto manager Farioli continues to leave him out of the squad and has taken shots at his agent—clear signals that have so far failed to break the deadlock. The situation now risks becoming more complicated. AC Milan have joined the race for the class of 2007 prospect and are exploring the possibility of inserting Mora into a deal involving Gimenez. It remains an idea under consideration between the two clubs, with no agreement yet. Roma retains pole position in the race. Sporting director D'Amico, who had pledged an end to drawn-out transfer sagas following the Greenwood and Summerville arrivals, is waiting for developments. The club is ultimately awaiting definitive approval from Villas-Boas, with Mora himself also in a holding pattern. Milan's intervention adds a new layer to negotiations, though Roma's advantage in talks persists for now.

Roma produced an encouraging pre-season display against Dortmund, with winger Lulli earning particular praise from head coach Gasperini for his personality, intensity, and boldness. The performance marked the first truly convincing outing of pre-season, but Gasperini has made clear he wants one more wide player before the Serie A season begins in eight days. Three candidates are on Roma's shortlist: Udogie, Cacciamani, and Luis Henrique. Udogie, an Udinese player, tops the wish list and has already agreed to join Roma; the club is preparing to open formal negotiations with Tottenham, with an opening bid around 25 million euros expected in the coming days. Cacciamani, a young Italian at Torino, remains an option, though the Granata value him at a minimum of 20 million euros. Luis Henrique, rated by Inter at nearly 30 million euros, is considered a longer shot—Roma is exploring a loan deal rather than a full transfer. Director D'Amico is working to complete the signing, but time is tight. Roma must fill this final wide-player slot within eight days as the campaign begins.