AS Roma Squad News

Lorenzo Pellegrini will not be available until the end of August at the earliest, as he continues to recover from a right thigh muscle injury. The Roma midfielder will miss fixtures against Fiorentina on Monday 24 August and Lecce on Monday 31 August. From 1 September, Pellegrini will begin training with the squad, with a week needed to regain match fitness. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini had indicated the extent of the layoff following Pellegrini's contract renewal on 8 August, stating: "It will take at least a month. At least. We'll talk about it in September." A call-up for the home match against Atalanta on Saturday 5 September is possible, but the key fixture targeted for Pellegrini's return is the away trip to Torino on Sunday 13 September. The number 7 suffered a recurrence of his muscular injury to the rectus femoris of his right thigh, prolonging his absence from team training and competitive action.

Roma's transfer priorities have shifted following the completion of Rodrigo Mora's signing. The club is now concentrating efforts on the left-back position and has deprioritised other targets, according to reports from Fabrizio Romano and Matteo Moretto. Interest in Malick Fofana has cooled considerably. Roma had an agreement in place with the Belgian winger but has not given Lyon the go-ahead to negotiate further. A proposed deal worth €35 million plus add-ons was deemed excessive by the club. After restructuring the terms to bring Mora to the capital, the Fofana operation has been sidelined. Similarly, pressure on Alessio Cacciamani has been relaxed as Roma refocus their efforts elsewhere. Luis Henrique has become the priority target, with Roma now pressing hard on that front. The challenge now is to find agreement on the financial terms between player and club.

Gian Piero Gasperini is building tactical flexibility into Roma's attack by deploying multiple forward options this summer. The transfer window has brought in players who give the squad genuine alternatives in attacking positions, allowing the coach to rotate his approach and personnel depending on match circumstances and opposition. The expanded attacking depth represents a shift in Roma's squad construction under Gasperini's direction. Rather than relying on a single focal point in the forward line, the club now has the depth to vary its attacking shape and personnel, offering the coach more tactical control and reducing fatigue across a full campaign. This approach reflects Gasperini's preference for tactical adaptability and squad rotation, principles he has applied throughout his managerial career. Roma's transfer strategy this summer has been built around creating multiple paths to attack, giving the coach options to switch formations, playing styles, and personnel to suit different opponents and match situations.

Manchester City have added Roma midfielder Manu Koné to their list of midfield targets, according to reports confirmed on 20 August by journalist Ben Jacobs. City, following Rodri's departure, are seeking two midfielders and have already advanced contact with Bouaddi and prepared a fresh offer for Chelsea's Enzo Fernández. Koné is among the profiles under consideration, with updates expected in the coming days. Koné's future remains uncertain despite recent reassurances over his Roma future. The French midfielder had been flagged as a likely departure this summer, but only Atlético Madrid's offer—deemed unsatisfactory—materialised on Roma's desk early in the transfer window. Manchester United had also shown interest previously. Roma are keen to avoid losing one of their key midfield players and will likely resist any bid. No official approach from City has been confirmed beyond the scouting interest. Developments are expected soon as City accelerate their search to fill the void left in their engine room.

Roma have less than two weeks left in the transfer window and must balance incoming reinforcements with outgoings. While it remains difficult to move Koné on, both Soulé and Ziółkowski are on the market. Ziółkowski arrived in the capital a year ago but has not convinced head coach Gasperini and may now generate useful revenue for the club's balance sheet. Roma's sporting director awaits offers, but the club is already preparing a defensive contingency plan. Koulierakis has arrived and will serve as Mario Hermoso's backup in theory, but should Ziółkowski leave, the club intends to plug the gap by signing an experienced centre-back on loan rather than permanently. In recent days, Oosterwolde of Fenerbahce was offered to Roma. The approach reflects the club's preference to maintain financial flexibility while addressing defensive depth before the window closes.

Roma's pursuit of Inter winger Luis Henrique has stalled, with the two clubs unable to bridge a significant gap in their demands. Inter are requesting around €30 million for the Brazilian, while Roma want to sign him on a loan deal with either a purchase option or an obligation to buy contingent on specific conditions. Inter have proposed straightforward trigger clauses—such as Roma's survival in Serie A or the accumulation of their first league points—but the clubs remain at odds. The player's wage demands have also complicated matters. With negotiations proving difficult, Roma are exploring alternative targets. Cacciamani is on their list of options, and Torino's arrival of Fortini has signalled Rome's shift in focus. A move for Udogie is considered unlikely or impossible.

Malick Fofana remains Roma's primary target to strengthen the attack, but the club will have to wait at least until after the Champions League qualifying round on 26 August before progressing negotiations. According to L'Équipe, Lyon's valuation of the player stands at approximately €45 million, and no agreement has yet been reached between the two clubs. Lyon intends to focus solely on their fixture against Fenerbahçe before discussions resume at the end of the month. Roma has long held Fofana on its wish list, and director D'Amico is working to bring another attacker to Gasperini's squad. The timeline suggests any move will depend on the outcome of Roma's Champions League preliminaries, with the transfer likely to be pursued once that competition is underway.

Radio pundits debated Roma's transfer strategy on 20 August, with analyst Sabatini arguing the season depends on how many goals Malen scores and how many matches Dybala can play. "It is difficult to think that they can play more than 20 matches as regular starters," Sabatini said on Radio Radio. Commentator Carina added that Roma has spent heavily but must make outgoings to balance the books, noting that Soulé's agent has guaranteed offers will arrive at Trigoria in the coming days. Carina also highlighted Roma's failure to sign a left-footed right winger despite it being a stated priority: "We are on 20 August and Roma has bought everything except that player." Marcacci suggested Fofana would have been a more useful acquisition than Mora for Roma's midfield needs, while Pes called for Roma to strengthen the attack with additional physicality and athleticism. Torri reported that an agreement exists between Lyon and Fofana, with conditions in place to close the deal. He also underlined Roma's two-year absence of a right-footed left winger despite spending over 10 million euros in that market. Speculation mounted around Koné's future, with Pes noting Manchester City interest but estimating Roma would demand 60 million euros for the midfielder.

Rodrigo Mora impressed in his first training session and now has four days to convince Gasperini he deserves the starting role in Roma's match against Fiorentina on Monday. The Portuguese forward will compete with Matías Soulé for the trequartista position in a 3-4-1-2 formation that Roma trialled on 19 August. Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen are set to start as the two strikers, with Mora eyeing an opportunity to stake his claim in the role that suits him best. Soulé's availability for the match remains uncertain as AC Milan continues to press for his signature, alongside English club Sunderland. The competition for places elsewhere in the team appears settled: Molina is ready to make his debut, Wesley will start at left-back, Bryan Cristante and Manu Koné will operate in midfield, and the defensive line in front of Mile Svilar will comprise Gianluca Mancini, Evan N'Dicka, and Mario Hermoso. Gasperini's early feedback on Mora has been positive, giving the forward genuine scope to earn a starting berth.

Jorge Mendes is working on a potential move for Matías Soulé to AC Milan, opening new possibilities for Roma as the transfer window enters its final stages. The agent's visit to Italy extends beyond his work with new Roma arrival Rodrigo Mora, and has reignited contact with Milan over Soulé, valued at approximately €35 million plus add-ons. Roma are exploring options including a loan with an obligation to buy or potential swap deals. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has long harboured interest in elite-profile targets, with Rafa Leão and Christopher Nkunku among names in the background of these discussions. Parallel to the Soulé situation, Roma continue pursuing Inter's Luis Henrique to strengthen their flanks and attack. The Brazilian's versatility—capable of playing on either wing or in support of the striker—appeals to Gasperini. Inter are holding out for €30 million, while Roma are pushing for a loan with an obligation to buy and have offered Henrique €1.5 million in salary plus add-ons. Henrique's willingness to join Roma has kept negotiations alive. He has now overtaken Destiny Udogie in the manager's preferences, though Roma are also monitoring Alessio Cacciamani.

Roma have twelve days left in the transfer window and have shifted their priorities to recruiting a left-back, with Luis Henrique of Inter their primary target. However, negotiations have hit a snag: the Brazilian earns a substantial wage and Inter have rejected Roma's proposals for a loan with a purchase option, instead demanding a conditional obligation to buy. In a parallel development, Alessio Cacciamani remains a viable alternative; Torino are asking €20 million after rejecting a €12 million offer (€10 million plus add-ons), though they face pressure to sell in the coming hours. Roma's transfer strategy has also seen movement in midfield. Manu Koné has attracted interest from Manchester City, who are seeking two midfielders to strengthen their squad according to reports from the Daily Mail and journalist Ben Jacobs. Negotiations over Malick Fofana with Lyon have also stalled, with the French club valuing the player at approximately €45 million. The club had previously reached an agreement with Lyon but could not settle terms with Fofana himself. Matías Soulé is now a departure target, with AC Milan closely monitoring the winger but requiring an offer of at least €35 million to pursue a deal. Christopher Nkunku has re-emerged as an alternative option for the Roma attacking lineup.

Roma are pressing ahead with their summer transfers with less than two weeks until the market closes. Malick Fofana of Lyon remains the priority for the attacking flank, with agreement reached on personal terms, but Lyon want to keep him at least until 26 August for their Champions League preliminary round return against Fenerbahce. Destiny Udogie's pursuit has cooled after Tottenham shut the door on a loan move and due to a gap in valuation. Alessio Cacciamani's arrival from Torino is warming up after the Turin club secured Fortini from Fiorentina in the same position and now need to sell. Torino previously rejected a €12 million offer but may reopen talks after a fresh bid from Roma's director. On the midfield front, Manu Koné is increasingly likely to stay in Rome after Manchester United turned their attention to Brighton's Baleba, removing a major rival suitor. Reports from England continue to link Manchester City with a possible future move for the French midfielder, however.

Roma want to complete their squad with two more signings before the transfer window closes, but face financial and numerical constraints imposed by UEFA agreements and profit rules. Head coach Gasperini continues to push for a profile like Malick Fofana to add unpredictability to the attack, but the situation is complex. With the arrival of Rodrigo Mora, the attacking midfield is already well covered: Paulo Dybala, Matías Soulé, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Robinio Vaz are all in the squad. Any move for Fofana depends on a significant sale that generates a profit to stay within settlement agreement parameters—which allow a maximum loss of €60 million over three years. Matías Soulé is the likeliest candidate to raise a fee close to €40 million. Director Tony D'Amico is also evaluating Luis Henrique from Inter as an alternative. The Brazilian can play on the wing or as an additional forward and would be an ideal utility player. Inter have indicated availability for a loan with a buyout clause set at €27–28 million, though the Nerazzurri are demanding very simple conditions to trigger the obligation—such as the first point won or survival—which complicates the deal. Lyon's timeline further clouds matters: the French club wants to wait for the outcome of Champions League qualifying before giving final approval for Fofana.

Roma have completed the signing of Rodrigo Mora from Porto. The 19-year-old midfielder described the deal as the culmination of a lengthy negotiation: "It was a long and difficult negotiation, but I always had faith." Roma paid Porto €25 million plus €2 million in complicated add-ons to acquire the full registration rights. Porto retain 50% of any future resale profit, a share Roma can reduce or eliminate entirely within the first two years by paying an additional fee. After the opening two seasons, Porto hold options to require Roma to acquire part or all of the resale percentage at a maximum valuation of €25 million. Roma did not pay agent commissions to Mendes on the deal.

Roma's pursuit of a left-wing midfielder has hit obstacles as the transfer window enters its final 11 days. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has received midfielder Mora and awaits moves to complete the squad, with a backup to Wesley at left-midfield the numerical priority. However, other positions may also be addressed before the deadline. Luis Henrique, the Brazilian leaving Inter, has become an increasingly unlikely target. Inter demands a conditional obligation to buy rather than a loan with purchase option, and values him at no less than €27 million—a fee Roma are unwilling to spend on a position already covered. The situation differs with Tottenham's Udogie, where the English club appears open to a simple loan with the right to buy late in the window; the Italian defender wants to return to Serie A and is keen on joining Gasperini's squad. Torino's Cacciamani remains an option, though a €5 million gap separates the clubs' valuations. Elsewhere, Roma harbour interest in Fofana, the Belgian attacker. His availability depends on Lyon's Champions League playoff return leg against Fenerbahce; the first leg ended 1–1, with Fofana playing the full 90 minutes.

Agent Jorge Mendes has arrived in Italy, and while his primary business involves Milan, contact has intensified between Roma and the Rossoneri over the transfer of Matías Soulé. Roma are asking for €35 million plus bonuses, though the deal could also be structured as a loan with an obligation to buy or as a straight swap. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has long held interest in Milan's Rafa Leao and Christopher Nkunku, with the latter pursued during the winter transfer window, but a move for either remains a steep challenge. Gasperini and sporting director Tony D'Amico have prioritised addressing the left wing-back position as a backup to Wesley. Inter's Luis Henrique remains the ideal candidate, capable of playing across both flanks and in more advanced roles behind the striker. The more concrete option at present is Malick Fofana of Lyon, where an agreement is already in place, though Roma want to settle the Soulé situation first. Meanwhile, Rodrigo Mora, who arrived at Roma, gave his first interview to the club's official channels, saying: "I cannot wait to play with Dybala."

Roma's pursuit of left-back Destiny Udogie has hit a significant obstacle in recent days. Tottenham will not entertain a loan deal, and the Giallorossi lack even a financial agreement with the player, despite Udogie's willingness to return to Italy. The setback leaves Roma temporarily pausing their attack reinforcement while the search for a vice Wesley continues unabated. With Luis Henrique still hovering in the background, attention may shift to Alessio Cacciamani, a path that could reignite following Torino's agreement with Fiorentina to sign Fortini, a defender in the same role. Torino's move opens space in their rearguard and creates selling pressure on the Turin club. Club owner Urbano Cairo had previously rejected a 12-million-euro offer (10 million plus bonuses) and is holding out for 20 million, but the Granata's need to generate sales could trigger a counter-bid from Roma in the coming hours. Roma technical director Florian Ghisolfi (D'Amico in the article) may prepare a revised offer soon as the window dynamics shift.

Rodrigo Mora is set to make his AS Roma debut in Monday evening's season opener against Fiorentina at the Olimpico. The Portuguese talent has already impressed in training at Trigoria and earned inclusion in Gasperini's squad, training alongside his idol Paulo Dybala, now his teammate. Mora signed a five-year contract and wears the number 86, the same shirt he favoured as the youngest debutant in Portuguese league history at age fifteen. The transfer was completed for €25 million plus €2 million in bonus payments, with Porto retaining 50 per cent of any future sale—a clause Roma can remove by paying an additional €25 million. Tactically, Mora will operate as a playmaker behind the striker, a role that complements Dybala and Donyell Malen in Roma's attacking setup. He has also been trialled in midfield but will be deployed in his natural attacking position as the campaign begins.

Roma continue to monitor Alessio Cacciamani, and a development at Turin may accelerate their pursuit. Torino confirmed an agreement with Fiorentina to sign Niccolò Fortini on loan with a right of redemption. Since Fortini plays the same position as Roma's target, the path to Cacciamani could warm in the coming hours. Torino's Cairo rejected Roma's opening bid of €10 million plus €2 million in bonuses; the club values Cacciamani at approximately €20 million, though Roma hope to negotiate a lower fee. Meanwhile, the search for alternative targets continues. Udogie remains on standby as Roma's transfer operation winds down. Sporting director D'Amico is hunting for a deputy to Wesley to deliver to head coach Gasperini before the window closes. Luis Henrique appears out of reach; no agreement has been reached either with Inter or the player himself.

Luís Miguel Henrique, the lawyer representing Rodrigo Mora, has detailed the behind-the-scenes negotiation between Roma and Porto in a lengthy letter published in Portuguese outlet Record, offering his account of a transfer deal he helped broker. Henrique described a situation where Roma had lost confidence in Porto, the player and his family were anxious, and even agent Jorge Mendes struggled to understand what had happened in the preceding 48 hours. The lawyer travelled to Porto last Wednesday when the deal appeared clinically dead, and through conversations with the player, his parents, and key figures, identified what could unite the parties. He emphasised that Porto's conditions were met and Roma—and Gasperini—received a signal on Friday that the operation had not collapsed. Henrique said the only unthinkable outcome was Mora remaining at Porto under the current manager, being "killed slowly" without playing time. Now that the deal is concluded, Henrique addressed Porto's leadership, saying the club obtained the transfer it needed on its stated terms, the player got what he wanted, Roma and Gasperini secured their target, and Farioli solved two problems with one move. He concluded that what endures is not the transfer value, bonuses, or future sale percentages, but the certainty that a man's word still holds meaning in a world of mutual distrust.

Rodrigo Mora's transfer to Roma has been completed, with the player's lawyer playing a decisive role in unblocking a deal that had become deadlocked. The lawyer revealed in an interview that the situation had reached a critical impasse midweek, with Roma distrustful of Porto, the player and his family uneasy, and even agent Jorge Mendes unable to understand what had happened in the preceding 48 hours. The lawyer intervened with phone calls and meetings to bridge the divide between all parties. Mora's exit from Porto was framed as urgent because of his relationship with manager Farioli. The lawyer stated: "The only thing unthinkable was for Rodrigo to remain another year at Porto with this coach, being slowly 'killed' without ever playing." The transfer resolves months of speculation during the summer window; earlier interest from Greenwood and Summerville had also circulated regarding the Portuguese talent. According to the lawyer's account, Porto obtained the agreement on the terms it had imposed, the player got what he wanted, agent Mendes succeeded, Roma secured their target, Farioli benefited, and the deal involved a €50 million fee—a valuation the lawyer noted only Mendes could have achieved for a 19-year-old replacement player. The lawyer emphasized that beyond transfer costs, bonuses, and resale percentages, the deal's true value lay in trust kept amid universal suspicion.

Manu Koné will remain at AS Roma after weeks of speculation about his future. The midfielder attracted attention from major European clubs, but no side committed decisively to a move. Atlético Madrid submitted the only official proposal, which Roma rejected. Chelsea and Manchester United showed concrete interest but never pushed beyond preliminary discussions. United's imminent signing of Baleba has now closed that door, and Koné is heading towards permanence in giallorosso, according to Fabrizio Romano. The 24-year-old had become Roma's central target for departure in this window, but the lack of a decisive offer and the arrival of competition at his prospective destination have effectively ended the speculation. With just days left in the transfer market, an exit is now highly unlikely. Koné recently returned to the squad and is being targeted for the match against Fiorentina. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has been waiting for his reintegration, which could restore balance, running intensity and drive that have been lacking in some pre-season friendlies. Koné's continuation means he can now develop into an even more significant player in Roma's midfield plans for the season ahead.

Gianluca Mancini has reaffirmed his commitment to Roma, dismissing interest from Inter and pledging to remain central to the club's ambitions. Since joining in 2019, Mancini has become the team's captain and emotional leader. "The heart cannot be commanded," he told Sky Sport. "I have a special relationship with Roma, I feel it inside me from the first day I arrived and it has only grown over the years. I wanted strongly to stay with the manager, with my teammates, to continue being a protagonist in this new year that is coming and to do things in the best way possible, because we deserve it as players, the city deserves it, the fans deserve it, the club deserves it. When you are part of a family it is difficult to leave." Mancini praised head coach Gasperini's preparation of the squad and outlined Roma's ambitions for the 2026–27 season. The defender explained that "what the manager does with his staff is to put us in the right conditions to face the season in the best way possible. We as a group follow to the letter what he tells us to do." On the title race, he noted that Inter start as favourites but stressed Roma's own credentials: "We are among those who will give everything to fight a tough championship." The focus, he said, is clear: "Not to be satisfied with what was done last season and try to do even better." Mancini also welcomed new arrivals into the squad. Rodrigo Mora joined recently, and Mancini recalled playing against him when Mora was at Porto two years ago, describing the impression he made as "very beautiful." On integrating new players, Mancini noted that senior figures help ease the transition—with Kostas Tsimikas, for instance, discussions quickly turned to tactics, environment, housing, and personal life. The Friedkin Group ownership, he added, shares a clear vision: "Their dream is to see a strong Roma, competitive, at high levels, and they have always shown it."

Rodrigo Mora began his AS Roma adventure on Tuesday morning at the Centro Sportivo Fulvio Bernardini, joining the squad for his first training session under Gian Piero Gasperini. The Portuguese talent took the field alongside Wesley and met his new Giallorossi teammates, greeting the club's social media followers with a simple message: "Buongiorno!". Mora's arrival adds depth to Roma's attacking options as the squad prepares for the 2026-27 campaign. He integrated immediately into Gasperini's squad at the training ground, suggesting a swift induction into the coach's tactical setup and daily routines.

Rodrigo Mora reported for his first day at Roma on 19 August, hours after the club confirmed his arrival. The Portuguese midfielder born in 2007 went straight to Trigoria and joined the squad for training under Gian Piero Gasperini. He quickly settled into his new surroundings, visibly smiling in footage released by Roma as he spoke and joked with fellow player Wesley—the shared Portuguese language helping them connect naturally. A standout moment came when Mora greeted staff with a perfect "Buongiorno" in Italian, signalling his eagerness to integrate immediately into his new environment. Mora is unlikely to feature from the start in Roma's next fixture against Fiorentina on Monday, but Gasperini is expected to give him minutes off the bench to build his familiarity with the Stadio Olimpico and demonstrate his abilities. The club and supporters are anticipating what the new arrival will bring to the squad.

Roma have acquired Rodrigo Mora on a permanent transfer from Porto for €27 million — €25 million fixed plus €2 million in performance-related bonuses. Porto's official statement detailed the structure: Roma purchased the player's registration rights outright, while Porto retained 50 per cent of his economic rights. This does not mean shared ownership; co-ownership no longer exists in Italian football. Roma own Mora completely as a player, but Porto maintains a stake in the financial proceeds of any future sale. The arrangement includes a valuable option for Roma: the club can acquire the remaining 50 per cent of economic rights for an additional €25 million at any point in the coming years. If Roma exercise that option, Porto loses all claim to future sale revenue. If Roma decline, Porto retains the choice either to sell their remaining stake or hold it in hope of a higher future fee, as Porto stated: "in order to benefit from a future sale of the player at a potentially higher value". The structure gives Roma flexibility while securing Mora's services permanently. Porto also clarified that FIFA solidarity payments will not be deducted from the agreed €25 million base fee, and that Porto will cover intermediary commissions amounting to 10 per cent of the transaction value. The layered deal preserves Roma's financial options while granting them immediate control of the player.

Jan Ziolkowski has attracted interest from two Saudi Arabian clubs, with Roma establishing a €20 million asking price for the defender. The contacts are ongoing and could progress in the coming days. Ziolkowski found limited playing time last season, and a sale at that figure would deliver a substantial profit for Roma on the Polish academy product. Roma have confirmed Rodrigo Mora as their fourth signing of the summer window and continue to monitor other targets including Malik Fofana. The club remain active on departures, with Ziolkowski among the most credible exit candidates. The €20 million valuation, set by Tony D'Amico, reflects Roma's willingness to move the player on if a suitable offer arrives from the Middle East.

Rodrigo Mora has completed his move to Roma and received his official confirmation today. The 2007-born player, a former Porto player, has chosen shirt number 86 — a number never worn by a Roma player before. Head coach Gasperini will assess Mora's readiness in his first training session, evaluating his fitness and potential contribution to the club. Mora is the seventh Portuguese player in Roma's history, following Edenilson (1999), Abel Xavier (2004), Antunes (2007), Mario Rui, Rui Patricio, and Sergio Oliveira. While earlier Portuguese arrivals produced mixed results, Rui Patricio and Sergio Oliveira became memorable figures during Roma's Europa Conference League-winning campaign under Mourinho. Mora faces a different challenge from his predecessors and will have the opportunity to make an impact. Roma face Fiorentina on Monday. Mora is not expected to start the match but Gasperini may grant him playing time, allowing supporters to see him in action wearing Roma colours for the first time.

Matteo Marcenaro will referee Roma's Serie A opener against Fiorentina on Monday 24 August at 20.45 at Stadio Olimpico. The Genoa-based official will take charge of the Giallorossi for the eighth time. In his seven previous Roma matches, Marcenaro has overseen four victories, two draws and one defeat—a largely favourable record for the club. The one loss has proven contentious. Roma lost 3–2 at Verona in 2024 under Juric after Marcenaro allowed a goal that followed a push on N'Dicka. De Rossi also criticised Marcenaro for not awarding a clear penalty to Zalewski during a 0–0 draw at Lecce. Such incidents have shadowed an otherwise positive relationship between the referee and the club over the years.

Roma radio pundits have weighed in on the club's transfer strategy as the summer window enters its final stretch. Piero Torri of Radio Manà Manà stated: "Selling Koné today would be suicide, unless I already have the replacement in hand. In my ideal formation, I put Koné and then choose the other midfielder. Either a crazy offer arrives or I keep him. Even if the need to raise funds remains. Fofana is well advanced, there is agreement with both Lyon and the player. I would understand a sale of Soulé." Simone Valdarchi noted that Roma's squad lacks numerical depth and the club will make at least one more signing. Fofana remains a possibility but is unlikely to be completed before the Champions League preliminary round returns. Roma are also monitoring wingers including Cacciamani and Luis Henrique, who can play further forward. Lorenzo Pes highlighted the financial constraints affecting Roma's planning. The Friedkin Group's €25 million investment for Mora and exploratory talks over Fofana at Lyon—who currently regard him as surplus to requirements—are significant factors. The key question is whether the ownership will commit €30 million to close Fofana's deal. Without such investment, Roma may need to explore alternative targets or generate funds through player sales.

Manchester United have abandoned their pursuit of Manu Koné and are instead close to completing a deal for Brighton midfielder Baleba. The Red Devils have tabled an offer of £60 million plus £5 million in add-ons, with Baleba having already agreed personal terms. Brighton have not yet fully accepted the bid, but negotiations between the clubs are ongoing. Koné, who joined Roma on loan with an obligation to buy from Borussia Mönchengladbach for €18 million in August 2024, now appears set to remain at Trigoria. The only official offer to reach the French midfielder came from Atlético Madrid last June for €43 million, which he rejected. Chelsea have also made contact but have so far only conducted an initial approach.

Roma have offered Lyon €35 million in base fee plus bonus for Belgian winger Malick Fofana, with personal terms agreed, but the French club wants to wait until after their Champions League preliminary against Fenerbahçe on 26 August before finalising discussions. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is awaiting owner approval from the Friedkin Group, who have already invested approximately €100 million this summer on Castro, Koulierakis, Molina and Mora. A sale would help Roma's finances and strengthen their negotiating position. Director of sport D'Amico is seeking offers for several squad members. No bids have arrived for Manu Koné, but Matías Soulé and Jan Ziółkowski are available for transfer. Soulé has attracted interest from Fiorentina and Sunderland, while Ziółkowski has drawn attention from Saudi clubs. Roma value the Polish defender at approximately €20 million, which would generate useful profit for the balance sheet. With 1 September approaching, Roma must accelerate their efforts.

Roma have reached outline agreement with Lyon over the signing of Malick Fofana for €35 million plus bonuses, but the Friedkin ownership have refused to sanction the deal. The transfer is also conditional on the outcome of Lyon's European preliminaries. Fofana remains the club's primary attacking target as Roma prepare for the final stretch of the summer transfer window, but the owners' reluctance to commit such a large outlay without meaningful player sales or more cost-effective structures—particularly given financial fair play constraints—has left the situation unresolved. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has requested fresh reinforcements to complete the squad ahead of Serie A and the Champions League, but Roma's financial caution has tempered his ambitions. Following the arrival of Portuguese playmaker Rodrigo Mora, the club must now balance competitive needs with spending discipline as the window enters its final days. On the left flank, Roma are exploring alternatives. Luis Henrique appeals for his versatility but commands high fees that have slowed negotiations; Tottenham's preference for a permanent sale has complicated any pursuit of Udogie; while Torino's Alessio Cacciamani remains the profile most aligned with Roma's economic and age parameters. With only days remaining, all options remain open.