“Roma’s Transfer Twist: Dybala Stays, Swap Deals, and Last-Minute Signings Loom”
With Paulo Dybala’s unexpected decision to decline a massive €80 million offer from Saudi club Al Qadsiah, Roma’s transfer plans for the final week of the mercato have taken a sudden turn. Initially, it seemed inevitable that Dybala would chase the money, and various reports suggested that Roma would target five new players: a center-back, two right-backs, a midfielder, and a left-winger.
However, with Dybala staying in the attack, the urgency to make a significant signing, like Rodrigo Riquelme from Atletico Madrid, has diminished, especially since Dybala’s salary remains on the books. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the latest transfer rumors surrounding the Giallorossi as the transfer window nears its close.
Roma and Napoli in Swap Deal Talks
Recently, media reports have linked Roma’s Primavera graduate Edoardo Bove with several clubs this summer. Late yesterday, a potential swap deal between Bove and Belgian forward Cyril Ngonge emerged. However, this morning, Gianluca Di Marzio revealed that Roma and Napoli are discussing a possible swap deal involving Ngonge and Nicole Zalewski.
Ngonge, who moved to Napoli from Hellas Verona in January for €18 million, is not part of Conte’s plans. The versatile forward can play across the front line, making him a valuable depth option for Roma’s attack. Meanwhile, Conte reportedly likes Zalewski, and if the deal materializes, Roma may need to add some cash to complete the swap.
Roma Closing in on Danso
After the loan expirations of Diego Llorente and Dean Huijsen, and the loan transfer of Marash Kumbulla, Roma has been actively pursuing center-backs this summer. It now appears that Kevin Danso of Lens is close to joining Roma’s defense. The 24-year-old Austrian has reportedly agreed to the move, and Roma is nearing a deal with the French club.
Roma’s initial €20 million offer was rejected, but they are preparing a new bid closer to Danso’s €23 million valuation. Danso, who joined Lens from Augsburg in 2021 for €5.5 million, has made 101 Ligue 1 appearances over three seasons and has 24 caps for the Austrian national team. He is expected to provide both depth and competition for Mancini and Ndicka, as well as offer flexibility between three-man and four-man defensive formations.
Rennes Issues Roma Ultimatum on Assignon
Lorenz Assignon has been Roma’s top target for the right-back position this summer. However, after weeks of speculation, it is now being reported that Roma has yet to make a formal offer, and Stade Rennes is growing impatient. Rennes is seeking a total of €10 million between the loan fee and the obligation to buy, and they are pressuring Roma to submit an official proposal today or risk losing the deal altogether.