Summerville struggles in Saudi Arabia as Roma fans mock missed chances

Roma face a critical fortnight in the transfer market with 11 days until the summer window closes and just over 72 hours before the 2026-27 season begins. The squad still lacks depth in two areas: a left-back and a left-winger. Head coach Gasperini wants at least two players for every position, so director D'Amico is exploring both signings and sales to balance the books. Jan Ziółkowski is the primary candidate to leave Rome. Although Gasperini prefers Ziółkowski over Ghilardi, the Polish defender has attracted more interest—particularly from Saudi Arabia, where Neom recently made an approach—because of his age and senior international experience. Roma are seeking €20 million for him, with 10 per cent of any future resale due to Legia Warsaw. Should Ziółkowski depart, Roma would need to find a replacement centre-back, likely on loan with a purchase option. Matías Soulé has also drawn fresh interest from Sunderland, managed by former Roma sporting director Ghisolfi, though no formal negotiations have opened. Gasperini has secured Manu Koné's future despite Manchester City's interest, viewing a replacement midfielder as impossible to source within the remaining timeframe. A double signing remains possible, but with left-back prioritized, the left-winger may only arrive following a departure.

Roma continues to search for offensive reinforcements as the transfer window enters its final 11 days, with left-back Luis Henrique of Inter emerging as the primary target for the wide position. A loan deal for Henrique is under negotiation, though no agreement has yet been reached with Inter over the formula. Midfield remains the secondary priority, with Roma working on loan moves after ruling out costly outright purchases. Manu Koné is expected to remain at Roma despite reported interest from Manchester City, as no formal bid has arrived at Trigoria. Alternatives at centre midfield—Fofana, Udogie, and Cacciamani—have all stalled. Fofana's €35 million-plus-bonus deal has been shelved because the Friedkin Group will not approve the current financial structure; Udogie faces obstacles both from Tottenham's refusal to negotiate a temporary transfer and from the player's own objections; Cacciamani has been deprioritized following resistance from Torino. Roma's ability to pursue incomings depends on outgoings. Ziolkowski has attracted interest from Neom, while Soulé has drawn attention from Sunderland. The club is now prioritizing loan arrangements with purchase options as a pathway forward given the constraints on spending.

Roma plan to sign one or two wingers to complete Gian Piero Gasperini's squad, but the Friedkin Group has signalled that any moves must be made without heavy spending unless unexpected sales occur. The club can pursue loan deals, potentially with purchase options, though the door remains open to exceptions in select cases. Roma's director of sport D'Amico is working to find sustainable alternatives. A move for Fofana was nearly agreed at 35 million plus bonuses, but the Friedkin Group will not sanction the deal under current terms. Cacciamani could represent an exception based on his age and cost, though Torino have shown no sign of changing their asking price. Inter value Luis Henrique at 25 million guaranteed, though there is scope for negotiation.