Gian Piero Gasperini confirms he picked Roma over Juventus last summer as the Giallorossi offered a ‘more difficult’ challenge, but facing the Bianconeri is ‘always’ tough ‘because they have top-level players.’

Gasperini held a press conference on Friday on the eve of a Serie A match against Juventus at the Allianz Stadium in Turin.

The Italian tactician provided the latest team news, saying that Mario Hermoso is not fully fit due to muscle fatigue, so he might be forced to make changes in defence as Evan Ndicka is also unavailable.

Roma hired Gasperini last summer, but reports suggested that Damien Comolli had offered him the Juventus job as well.

Gasperini has now explained why he chose the Giallorossi over the Bianconeri.

Why Gasperini picked Roma over Juventus

“Because it was more difficult. I’m happy with how it went,” Gasperini said via Sky Sport.

“Now we face this important match. Juve remain a great team, certainly strong and always able to reinforce themselves. Winning is always in their DNA; we come to this match after a good performance against Como and in Glasgow, and we want to test ourselves against this team.

“I think we’ve been good: 15 matches is a good streak to give some indications. I don’t know if we are among the best, but the boys have been excellent in almost all games, even when we didn’t manage to win,” Gasperini continued.

“It’s important for them to try to catch up and for us to maintain or increase our advantage. It’s December 19, concentration is at its peak, and it’s very exciting to play this match with this ranking. The rest can wait, this is not the time.”

Roma sit fourth in the Serie A table, with a four-point lead over fifth-placed Juventus, so tomorrow’s meeting is a key one in the race for a Champions League spot.

Gasperini was questioned about his relationship with Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti, who replaced Igor Tudor at the end of October.

Gasperini: Juventus a ‘benchmark in my career’

“It’s certainly friendly. When he was at Inter, we happened to have dinner together and we often spoke when he was with the national team,” Gasp revealed.

“Now we talk less, but we will greet each other cordially. It’s not easy to be appointed mid-season, but he’s trying to bring his ideas. Facing them is always difficult because they have top-level players.

“The rivalry with Juventus is felt in all cities. I was at the club as a youth coach, and always finding motivated opponents toughened the team,” concluded the Roma coach.

“Instead of being a disadvantage, it becomes an advantage. Juve have always been a benchmark in my career. When you beat them, it means you are competitive, even in less successful seasons; they remain among the best teams.”

Gian Piero Gasperini says that Mario Hermoso is dealing with muscle fatigue on the eve of a Serie A match against Juventus, but the Roma coach wants to ‘touch the team as little as possible’ even if Evan Ndicka is unavailable.

• Read more – Raspadori gives green light to Roma transfer: possible double deal

Roma might be short of options at the back tomorrow when they visit Juventus in the big match of Serie A Round 16.

Ndicka, one of their best defenders this season, is on Ivory Coast international duty for the AFCON, and Hermoso is not fully fit. Neil El Aynaoui is also participating in the AFCON with his Morocco national team and won’t be available in Turin tomorrow.

Gasperini previewed the Juventus game at a press conference on Friday, providing the latest team news for the Giallorossi.

Roma team news for Juventus game

“Dovbyk is not fully recovered, even though he has been training for several days. He still has some difficulty in kicking,” the coach said via Sky Sport.

“The rest of us are all available, except for those who have left. There’s a slight issue with Hermoso that we hope to resolve.

“It’s a fatigue issue, I hope we’ll be able to recover him,” Gasperini continued, discussing the Hermoso problem in more depth.

“I want to touch the team as little as possible. To bring Celik along, you have to move three players, which isn’t ideal. Ndicka’s absence forces us to try options like Ziolkowski, Celik or Ghilardi. If Hermoso doesn’t make it, it will make things more difficult.”

Roma sit fourth in the Serie A table, four points above the Bianconeri.

“Today, we’ll see if Dybala is able to start,” concluded Gasperini.

“His motivation is always high; it’s just a matter of him feeling good and being able to sprint and shoot in the best possible way.”

• More from Gasperini’s press conference – Gasperini confirms he snubbed Juventus for Roma: ‘More difficult’

Giacomo Raspadori has given the green light to join Roma in January, and Gian Piero Gasperini hopes the Giallorossi will welcome both the Italian striker and Joshua Zikrzee next month.

Roma are working to give Gasperini attacking reinforcements in the winter transfer window and, as already reported on Thursday, the Giallorossi could sign two players up front next month.

Raspadori agrees to join Roma

Sources with a direct knowledge of the matter tell me that Raspadori has already given the green light to move to the Stadio Olimpico from Atletico Madrid, the club he joined last summer from Napoli.

Now the Giallorossi are due to negotiate with the Colchoneros to bring the first winter reinforcement to the capital, possibly on loan with an option to buy or an obligation tied to certain objectives.

Roma still keen on Zirkzee

Gasperini hopes that club-to-club negotiations won’t last long, so he’ll soon welcome a new player in attack.

The Roma coach, however, has prioritised the purchase of Manchester United striker Zirkzee, and a double deal in attack can’t be ruled out.

“Roma” transfer bazarında aktiv işləməyə davam edir və “Atletiko”nun hücumçusu Cakomo Raspadorinin mümkün keçidini araşdırır.

Komanda.az xarici KİV-ə istinadən xəbər verir ki, paytaxt klubu yalnız “Mançester Yunayted”dən Coşua Zirkze ilə maraqlanmır, həm də italiyalı futbolçunun ətrafı ilə artıq ilkin əlaqələr qurulub.

“Roma”nın baş məşqçisi Can Pyero Qasperini uzun müddətdir Raspadorini izləyir və hələ “Atalanta”dakı dönəmində onu komandaya dəvət etməyə çalışıb.

25 yaşlı forvard cari mövsümdə bütün turnirlərdə 13 oyuna çıxaraq, 2 qol vurub və 1 məhsuldar ötürmə verib.

The post “Roma” italiyalı hücumçu üçün hərəkətə keçib appeared first on Komanda.az.

Former Juventus and Roma striker Zbigniew Boniek feels Kenan Yildiz is the only top player in Turin and a potential ‘superstar’, while Paulo Dybala is the Giallorossi’s best player, but if he’s not fit, he could create ‘difficulty for the coach.’

Juventus and Roma meet at the Allianz Stadium in Turin on Saturday in the big match of Serie A Round 16.

The Giallorossi sit fourth in the Serie A table, just three points below the top spot.

Juventus are fifth, four points behind their next rivals.

Boniek on Spalletti and Gasperini

“Gasperini is doing an extraordinary job, almost surprising in some respects,” Boniek told Gazzetta.

“I don’t think that at the start of the season, many people would have expected such a strong start from Roma. Gasperini is tough, honest, and makes everyone work in the same way.

“On the other hand, Spalletti has only recently taken charge, but it seems to me that he’s already giving the team a clear direction. He’s a very ambitious coach, but his Juventus team is without superstars. Perhaps the only one is Yildiz, who seems destined for a bright future. He can become an absolute top player; you just have to see how he touches the ball, how he caresses it.”

Roma’s most decisive player this season has arguably been Matias Soulé, a former Juventus player, who has grabbed five goals and five assists in 21 games across all competitions.

Boniek on Dybala, Soulé and Pellegrini

“Soulé is becoming fundamental, even if he needs to broaden the range of his moves. He has an important left foot,” acknowledged Boniek.

“Dybala’s quality, on the other hand, is beyond discussion, but you always have to see how he’s doing physically. The surprising thing is that Roma are up there, three points off the top, without having been able to rely almost at all on their strongest player.”

Can Soulé and Dybala coexist in the Roma XI? Boniek certainly believes so.

“Of course, they can; strong players can always play together. It’s clear, however, that to see them together, you have to take care of the defensive phase; you have to contribute there as well,” he argued.

Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini’s contracts expire in June, but at the moment, they seem nowhere near signing a new deal at the Stadio Olimpico.

“Potentially, this is a problem for Massara. It seems to me, however, that there are two different issues,” concluded Boniek.

“Paulo is too important, but he has to guarantee at least 80% of the matches. If, instead, he’s only partially fit, it becomes a problem and also creates some difficulty for the coach. I would like Pellegrini to stay, without going elsewhere to seek fortune. He has quality, and you can see it, but for him, the physical issue applies too. If he’s fine, it’s fine.”

On the eve of an ‘exciting’ game against Juventus, Roma defender Gianluca Mancini insists he’s not mean and that he always gives ‘everything’ for the shirt.

Roma visit Juventus at the Allianz Stadium in Turin tomorrow in the big match of Serie A Round 16.

“It will be exciting and stimulating. We’ll have to sweat, but we’re going into it fired up,” the Giallorossi defender Mancini told La Stampa.

“Spalletti is a great coach. I had him for a year with the national team. I consider Juventus a great and complete team, with important qualities in terms of physicality, technique and speed. It will be a great match to approach with the belief that we can put in a strong performance. Openda, David, Yildiz and Zhegrova can play their part and decide the game.”

Mancini is often involved in arguments and clashes on the pitch, but the Italy international insisted he’s not a mean person.

Mancini: ‘Mine are all football clashes’

“Absolutely not, just talk to the people who know me well,” he said.

“On the pitch, many factors come into play, like adrenaline and tension, which are part of the competition. I don’t think I’ve ever been involved in elbows, killer tackles or punches to the face. Mine are all football clashes. I focus on playing with maximum dedication, giving everything for my team’s shirt, for my teammates and myself. The dislike from fans of opposing teams can be unpleasant, but I always prefer to be seen in a positive light by my own supporters.”

Mancini opens up about Italy and his idols

The Roma defender is expected to be part of the Italy squad playing in the World Cup playoff in March next year.

“Our generation feels the absence from the World Cup very strongly. We need to stay calm and approach the playoffs with the right mindset,” he said.

“The impact with Gattuso has been wonderful. He’s given the group the desire to go to Coverciano with a smile and a real sense of belonging to the shirt.”

Lastly, Mancini spoke about his idols: “One has always been Marco Materazzi, even when I played as a midfielder. I also liked Aldair, Samuel and Maldini. Now I appreciate Sergio Ramos, Van Dijk and Rudiger, defenders who are physically tough and live matches intensely.”

Tuttosport reports that Milan and Roma are interested in Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie, who will be available on a free transfer in June, while the Bianconeri are keeping an eye on Bryan Cristante’s situation in the capital.

Milan and Roma will be eager to make a contract offer to McKennie in the new year, as the American midfielder has been failing to reach an agreement to extend his expiring deal in Turin.

McKennie contract talks with Juventus on hold

Football Italia already reported this week that talks between McKennie and Juventus were on hold.

According to Tuttosport, McKennie’s priority is to stay at Juventus, but his agents are also sounding out options in the Premier League as Milan and Roma watch on.

The Giallorossi have another decision to make in central midfield as Cristante’s contract runs out in June 2027.

Juventus interested in Cristante for 2026

A regular starter under Gian Piero Gasperini, Cristante is unwilling to accept a pay cut to extend his stay in the capital. Tuttosport reports that the club and the player have ‘different ideas’ regarding the future, so reaching an agreement in the coming months is not guaranteed.

Cristante is expected to end the season in Rome before potentially discussing a move.

Juventus are looking for an experienced Regista, and Cristante is one of the players on the agenda, also because his agent, Beppe Riso, is reported to be on excellent terms with Juventus’ CEO, Damien Comolli.

Napoli director of sport Giovanni Manna shrugs off Kobbie Mainoo and Giacomo Raspadori updates, assuring they are ‘doing very well’ ahead of the Supercoppa with AC Milan.

The first EA Sports FC Super Cup semi-final kicks off in Riyadh at 19.00 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Lausanne-Sport vs. Fiorentina on the Liveblog.

The Supercoppa Italiana Final Four format means tonight a winner is decided after 90 minutes or on a penalty shoot-out, without requiring extra time.

Whoever wins this goes on to face either Bologna or Inter in the Final on Monday.

Manna on Napoli issues

There are quite a few changes in the Napoli side going into this game, with the usual absentee list of Kevin De Bruyne, Alex Meret, Billy Gilmour and Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa.

At least Romelu Lukaku is back on the bench for the first time since tearing a muscle during a pre-season friendly in August.

“We are so happy Lukaku is back in the squad, but he is not yet in a condition to play. He has character, we’ll see how he improves over the next few weeks, and then we’ll see,” Manna told Sport Mediaset.

There were reports today from Sky Sports UK that Manchester United have no intention of letting Kobbie Mainoo go on loan in January, and will only accept an ‘exceptional’ offer to sell. With that in mind, are Napoli still confident they can sign the midfielder?

“I always said we must reflect on the January transfer window, as there are important players out and sooner or later they will return. So we’ll wait and see what happens over the next few weeks,” responded Manna with a shrug.

There are also numerous reports that Giacomo Raspadori will return to Serie A for Roma, just six months after leaving Napoli for Atletico Madrid. Would that surprise Manna?

“He is a player who gave a lot to Napoli, Napoli gave a lot to him, he made a choice and we supported him in it. Personally, I don’t think he will leave Atletico Madrid. Personally.”

The Partenopei have a rough atmosphere in the build-up to this match, as they lost back-to-back fixtures against Benfica in the Champions League and Udinese in Serie A.

Antonio Conte had lashed out in the media last time they had these setbacks, so is the situation calmer on this occasion?

“We never had internal problems, I don’t feel Conte ever sparked controversy, he was just sounding the alarm. We had two defeats after a spell where we had a series of victories in head-to-head clashes, so with the squad a little limited in options and so many big games, some fatigue is physiologically inevitable,” assured Manna.

“The team is doing very well, we are confident in what we are doing and what the coach is doing.”

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has pushed back against criticism surrounding his trophy record at Old Trafford, invoking Roma icon Francesco Totti as an example of how greatness should not be measured solely by silverware.

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Fernandes reflected on his time at Manchester United, stressing loyalty and responsibility during some of the club’s most difficult periods.

Since arriving in 2020, the Portuguese midfielder has often been one of United’s most influential figures, but has also faced scrutiny amid the club’s struggles to consistently challenge for major honours.

Bruno Fernandes revealed that he had opportunities to leave the club, but chose to stay. “When I arrived, beyond loving the club, I think my loyalty was similar to what I felt during the toughest periods,” he explained. “I could have left on two occasions. I refused, and the club also said no, they said they needed me.”

Bruno Fernandes points to Totti legacy at Roma to justify Man Utd record

Bruno Fernandes admitted frustration over the lack of trophies, but questioned the modern tendency to judge players purely by honours won. “Obviously my time here hasn’t been how I wanted it to be, because I wanted to win trophies and I haven’t won as many as I should or could have,” he said, adding that “nowadays people talk about players being better or worse depending on the trophies they win.”

Fernandes then pointed to Totti’s legacy at Roma, drawing a clear parallel. “If you look back, Totti is known as one of the best players in Italy, and unfortunately for him he didn’t win many trophies. But everyone still says he’s one of the best to ever play for Italy,” he noted. “Roma haven’t won much since his time either, yet he is still the God of Rome.”

Addressing his critics directly, Fernandes acknowledged that a different career path might have brought more success. “I could have chosen another route and probably won more trophies,” he admitted. “People might talk about me differently because of that.” However, he concluded that his contribution still matters: “I believe what I’ve done for the club has been important, without taking anything away from the other players who have been here.”

Roma want reinforcements in January and the plan is to secure at least two signings, targeting both Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United and Atletico Madrid’s Giacomo Raspadori.

It is well known that the engines have been revving in the background for over a month when it comes to Zirkzee, but we revealed last night that the work is intensifying rapidly to get the Italian too.

The idea now is to get at least two strikers to bolster their options, because Roma need real additions, considering Paulo Dybala could stay in January, but his fate is practically sealed with the contract expiring at the end of the season.

Roma forwards are not delivering for Gasperini

New signings can also influence the future of Tommaso Baldanzi, as Verona and others are pushing for him, while Leon Bailey has been unconvincing even when he wasn’t injured.

Stephan El Shaarawy is another forward whose contract is down to the final few months.

We also must not forget that one of the current two centre-forwards could be out soon enough, as Gian Piero Gasperini is trying to get the best out of Evan Ferguson, waiting for Artem Dovbyk to get back to fitness.

The Giallorossi are looking at various talented prospects (for example Giovane of Verona), but need someone reliable to make this second half of the season more ambitious.

Former Juventus and Roma coach Fabio Capello feels that Kenan Yildiz, Francisco Conceiçao, Wesley and Mile Svilar can make a difference in the upcoming Serie A meeting between Bianconeri and Giallorossi.

Juventus and Roma meet on Saturday at the Allianz Stadium in Turin in the big match of Serie A round 16.

The Bianconeri sit fifth in the Serie A table, four points below the Giallorossi, so Capello believes that the upcoming showdown means more for the Old Lady.

Capello previews Juventus vs. Roma

“[It means more for] Juventus, at least in terms of the standings. But it’s also a big test for Roma,” the former Italian coach told Gazzetta.

“Winning at the Allianz Stadium would give even more momentum to Gasperini’s team after the fine victory against Fabregas’ Como. The scoreline on Monday could have been wider.

“If both teams play at a high tempo, as I expect after what they showed in the last round, then duels and fine margins will matter even more. Yildiz’s bursts and Conceiçao’s dribbling can shift the balance.”

Juventus beat Bologna 1-0 away in the previous weekend, and Roma defeated Como at home with the same result.

Capello believes that if the Bianconeri secure a win over Roma on Saturday, they might even aim for something bigger than just a top-four finish.

“For now, it is a league without a dominant team. If, after Bologna, they beat Roma as well, why should they not think bigger about getting back in the Scudetto race? Especially because Juventus are training these days, while their rivals are travelling and playing in the Supercoppa in Saudi Arabia, it’s no small difference.”

Two Roma difference makers vs. Juventus

Yildiz and Conceiçao have been identified as the potential difference-makers for Juventus, but how about Roma?

“Wesley files; he’s devastating on both the right and the left. He could be Roma’s key to opening up Juventus, but Gasp’s extra-man is always the same. Svilar. He’s the best goalkeeper in the league with an incredible reading of the game and outstanding saves. He’s a goalkeeper who counts like a striker in the team’s overall balance,” Capello concluded.

During the same interview, Capello also spoke about Evan Ferguson, saying that he’s spotted “positive signs” from the Irish striker in recent weeks.

“Roma”nın futbolçusu Paulo Dibala karyerasını Argentinada davam etdirə bilər.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə “Doble Amarilla” portalı məlumat yayıb. Argentinalı hücumçu klubla müqaviləsini uzatmaq istəmir və yayda “Boka Xuniors”a keçmək variantını nəzərdən keçirir.

32 yaşlı futbolçu bu mövsüm 13 oyunda 2 qol vurub. Onun müqaviləsi 2026-cı ilin yayına kimidir.

Former Roma coach Fabio Capello sees ‘positive signs’ from Evan Ferguson but is unsure the Republic of Ireland international will start against Juventus on Saturday.

Roma visit Juventus in the big match of Serie A Round 16 on Saturday. The Giallorossi sit fourth in the table, but have only scored 16 goals, the lowest in the top 10.

Ferguson’s highs and lows at Roma

Brighton loanee Ferguson is struggling with playing time, and there are reports that he could even return to England in January, but he recently scored a brace in the Europa League against Celtic.

‘Positive signs’ from Ferguson, says Capello

“Ferguson is starting to move better; some positive signs can be seen,” Capello told Gazzetta.

“It will be interesting [against Juventus] to see whether Gian Piero Gasperini will rely on Paulo Dybala’s quality or give up the Argentine to prioritise intensity, tempo and pressing.”

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Supercoppa semifinal: Napoli-Milan in Riyadh (20:00)

Super filled up

Conte relies on Hojlund: ‘We need more courage.’

Allegri is without Leao, the transfer market brings Fullkrug.

Jashari: ‘Soon to the top, I’m learning from Modric.’

Look, Inter, there’s Inzaghi: ‘It’s a paradise here.’ 

The ex-coach wants to greet his former team and the directors. In the meantime, Chivu is looking for the first trophy and finds the ThuLa again.

Fiorentina, Vanoli playing for everything.

Corriere dello Sport

Stuff for sheikhs

Supercoppa, first semifinal

Napoli-Milan in Riyadh (20:00). Conte wants the 10th trophy, Allegri looks for the 15th.

Hojlund, attack on Pulisic

Lobotka starts, Politano as right wing-back, Di Lorenzo in defence. Elmas favourite over Lang, Leao on the bench. Nkunku confirmed Fullkrug close. Penalty kicks straight away if it ends in a draw.

Trap for Inter

Little turnover for Chivu: Lautaro and Thuram in attack. Martinez might play in goal. Reflections on Bastoni, Carlos Augusto could start. Lucumì doubt for Italiano. De Silvestri or Lykogiannis close to Heggem.

The stars expire

From Dybala to Vlahovic: 93 Serie A players out of 572 to become free agents

The downhill after Gasp: Spalletti believes in it

Tuttosport

Conte-Max: Super..market with Norton-Cuffy and Fullkrug.

Antonio is looking for his third personal success after two wins in two finals, then he’ll wait for reinforcements. All the way for the Genoa winger, also wanted by Inter. The Rossoneri defend the title and Allegri is about to be gifted the German hitman.

Elkann, Spalletti and Del Piero

Champions incentives

The ownership’s charge in the last week and the solid bond with the coach match the rewards for the most important cup and the millions at stake for qualification for the Round of 16. Interview with ex-director Montali: ‘I don’t share the decision on Comolli, but John remains a guarantee. Alex: ‘For my Juventus, nothing must be impossible.’

Dybala, Boca to try in January

The rapport with Gasperini is reduced to the lowest terms. Paulo’s favourite team is ready to anticipate: Riquelme hopes for a total breakup.

Toro, Israel goes? Idea of Turati

Sassuolo sounded out, looking for a solution for the Uruguayan after the promotion of Paleari to starting goalkeeper. Toro Museum at the Fila: ‘Now yes.’

Viola, the darkest hour. Viola risks it all

Fiorentina can qualify for the Round of 16 straight away. Then Udinese. Fagioli: ‘We’ll get over it.’

Manchester United have reportedly had recent meetings with Roma officials to discuss a potential transfer deal for Joshua Zirkzee.

However, it seems that a deal is not necessarily close to being agreed, and Roma may have alternatives in mind if they cannot land the Netherlands international.

Zirkzee hasn’t played much first-team football for Man Utd in recent times, so it makes sense that his future is in doubt, but it looks like this saga could get complicated, if the latest reports are to be believed.

Latest updates on Joshua Zirkzee and potential Roma transfer

According to Corriere dello Sport, United and Roma chiefs recently met in London to discuss a deal for Zirkzee, but it’s suggested that he currently looks too expensive for the Serie A side.

With no agreement in sight, it seems Roma are also looking at Atletico Madrid’s Giacomo Raspadori, according to Alfredo Pedulla’s report for Football Italia.

It will be interesting to see what this means for the Red Devils, who surely need to lower their demands for Zirkzee and simply focus on getting him off their books.

Joshua Zirkzee staying at United doesn’t benefit anyone

It’s hard to see what United could possibly get out of clinging on to Zirkzee for much longer as he’s clearly not in Ruben Amorim’s plans.

Of course, there’s always the argument that MUFC would do well to ensure they have depth in attack, but that’s not a role the player is going to be happy with, especially in a World Cup year.

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United could also probably do better if they allow Zirkzee to leave now and work on finding a replacement who’d offer them a better option up front anyway.

If they keep the 24-year-old for too much longer without playing him, then his value will surely only go down even further, so it’s hard to see a positive outcome from this strategy.

The post Talks held: Man United meet with club chiefs to discuss transfer but new complication has emerged appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Not only Joshua Zirkzee – as revealed more than a month ago, Roma’s radar continues to include other attacking profiles, and the club are working hard on Giacomo Raspadori, who is set to leave Atlético Madrid.

We have already explained that Raspadori is also liked by Lazio, who are currently at a standstill on the market.

Gian Piero Gasperini appreciates Raspadori, wanted him previously in Bergamo and considers him, as outlined yesterday, a second striker.

Roma make contact with Raspadori to reinforce attack

Roma are maintaining direct contacts with the player’s entourage, and a double move cannot be ruled out, especially given the broader attacking picture.

Leon Bailey is not guaranteed to stay, while Tommaso Baldanzi could also leave, with interest from Verona and others. There is also the situation of Stephan El Shaarawy, whose contract is nearing its expiry.

The directive from ownership is clear: meet Gasperini’s requests following his excellent initial impact with the Giallorossi. Major manoeuvres are underway.

Inter are reportedly considering a move for Roma wing-back Wesley as they continue to plan for life without Denzel Dumfries, whose injury has forced the club to assess alternatives on the right flank.

After missing out on Manu Koné in the summer, Inter are now said to be looking again at Roma’s squad, with L’Interista, via TuttoMercatoWeb, reporting strong interest in the Brazilian international, born in 2002.

Wesley is a regular starter for Roma under Gian Piero Gasperini and is viewed at Viale della Liberazione as a player capable of stepping into Dumfries’ role without a significant drop in quality.

The profile fits Inter’s ownership strategy: Wesley is young, already experienced at a high level, and earns around €2m per season. However, Roma are expected to demand a significant fee, with talks unlikely to begin below €30-35m.

Inter need grows as Dumfries undergoes surgery

The Nerazzurri could look to include Davide Frattesi as a bargaining chip, a player who remains highly appreciated by the Giallorossi, potentially helping to lower the overall cost of any deal.

The need for a credible alternative has grown after Dumfries underwent ankle surgery on Tuesday at the Fortius Clinic in London. The Dutch international’s rehabilitation timeline has yet to be defined, with further updates expected in the coming weeks.

Dumfries confirmed the success of the operation himself, explaining that it had been “a tough month full of emotions” but adding that “the surgery went well and the worst is now behind me. I’m focused on recovery and will do everything I can to return to the pitch as soon as possible.”

Mauro Icardi is expected to leave Galatasaray, with his representatives already sounding out a possible return to Serie A, according to reports in Italy.

The former Inter captain has been proposed to Milan, Como and Roma, with Sportmediaset, via CalcioMercato, claiming initial enquiries have been made ahead of the January transfer window. At present, these remain exploratory contacts rather than concrete negotiations.

Icardi joined Galatasaray in the 2022-23 season, initially on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, and is under contract until June 2026.

However, that deadline is increasingly being viewed as a limit rather than a guarantee, with this season expected to be his last in Istanbul and a January exit not ruled out.

Icardi role at Galatasaray diminishes amid Italy & Spain links

Although he has recovered from a knee injury, competition within the squad has intensified. The presence of Victor Osimhen and Leroy Sané, combined with Galatasaray’s intention to sign another striker in January, with Ademola Lookman still a leading target, has further reduced Icardi’s role.

The Argentine has made 21 appearances this season, but has accumulated just 800 minutes and started only six times. Despite that, his scoring record remains strong, with eight goals in the Turkish Super Lig.

There is also reported interest from Spain. According to Argentine outlet Mitre Live, Icardi is considering a move to LaLiga, with Elche and Real Oviedo both monitoring his situation. The report adds that a move to Spain would be favoured for personal reasons, with both clubs offering the possibility of living in Madrid.

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

Inter exchange blows 

Dumfries out for at least two months 

The Dutchman has an operation on his ankle. Luis Henrique hasn’t convinced, the club are on Norton-Cuffy

Yildiz + Conceicao: Creativity wins at Juventus 

Spalletti’s key players 

Mancini the ‘bad guy’ that everyone wants 

The Roma defender 

Supercoppa of phenomena 

The Napoli-Milan semi-final tomorrow 

McTominay and Pulisic already charged up in Arabia: We’ll take care of it

Scudetto reinforcements 

Mainoo calls Conte, Fullkrug for Allegri

Corriere dello Sport 

Gasp attack 

In Spalletti’s backyard

And on  Saturday, he wants to leave Lucio behind 

Roma’s exploits could upset the balance in the race for the Scudetto and Champions League 

From their defensive record (only eight goals conceded) to the super relationship between Soule and Wesley, Gasp is now looking for his first major win against a direct league rival. And he waits for Zirkzee

The Supercoppa in Saudi Arabia is a necessary inconvenience 

Whoever wins earns 11 million 

Playing for pride but also for finances in Riyadh 

Napoli-Milan: McTominay is Conte’s highlander: Looking for his first goal against Milan to take them to the final. Leao recovers, Gabbia misses the battle against Hojlund. Attack on Fullkrug: A low-cost operation

Bologna-Inter: Italiano puts Dominguez and Fabbian to the test: Confirm their spot or be sold. Chivu, Luis Henrique provides the width: Trust in the former Marseille man to plug the gap until March in the absence of Dumfries 

Laio in New York: on the NASDAQ window 

New opportunities on the global market 

PSG blow, must pay Mbappe 61 million 

Intercontinental Cup, against Flamengo atr 17.00

Tuttosport 

Juve, midfield turnaround

Frattesi on a free 

Spalletti looking for quality in the middle 

In addition to the Inter man, Comolli is studying two other midfielders whose contracts are expiring: Schlager from Leipzig and Timber from Feyenoord. Perin-Leali swap with Genoa? Roma on Saturday: Del Piero frenzy 

Toro, there’s Carboni after Christmas 

The priority of sporting director Petrachi is to reinforce the defence in January. Monza like Ilkhan: Possible swap? Eye on the baby Kofler from Sudtirol

De Vrij also thinks about saying ciao to Inter 

It’s not just Frattesi

Forgotten by Chivu, the Dutchman doesn’t want to lose his World Cup spot. Dumfries operation: Returns in March 

Fiorentina time bomb: ‘Disputes and damages’

The brawl reportedly rook place in Reggio Emilia: Sassuolo and the Viola club deny it but the case is growing

‘PSG must pay Mbappe 61 million’

The French club ordered to reimburse their ex-star. Now at Real: Unpaid salary

The chaos at Fiorentina means there could be big departures in January, with reports Roma could swoop for Albert Gudmundsson.

The Viola are rock bottom of the Serie A table and the only team still without a single victory in the league this season.

The entire squad is kept in a training retreat indefinitely following the 2-1 home defeat to Hellas Verona, and malcontent is at an all time high.

This points to potential exits in the January transfer window to completely revamp the group, and one of those heading for the door is Gudmundsson.

Gudmundsson not happy at Fiorentina

The Iceland international was signed from Genoa last year on loan and then bought outright for a total fee of €18.85m plus bonuses, but has been completely incapable of recreating the form he had shown earlier in Serie A.

He also got into a very public row with coach Paolo Vanoli when denying he had refused to take a penalty, insisting he simply didn’t want to “argue with a teammate in front of everyone.”

Nonetheless, his five goals and two assists in 19 competitive games this season suggest he could get a good price, and Calciomercato.com claim Roma would be interested in a swoop.

An offer of over €25m could be sufficient, but Roma are more likely to propose a loan with option to buy at the end of the season.

Watch and listen to the latest news updates from the world of Calcio courtesy of Football Italia expert Alfredo Pedullà.

Today, Pedullà discusses Roma’s fiery 1-0 victory over Como and how this affects the Giallorossi’s transfer strategy going forward for Joshua Zirkzee and Giacomo Raspadori.

Elsewhere, AC Milan are considering Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham United, with their eye still on Dusan Vlahovic for the summer.

Khephren Thuram is the last player Juventus should consider selling, while Pedullà outlines which clubs most need to take action in January.

Watch: Pedullà on Roma progress and plans for January

Gian Piero Gasperini has a wish list for the Roma attack and it’s in a clear order, with Joshua Zirkzee first, Yuri Alberto second, and Giacomo Raspadori only third.

The Giallorossi know they need to secure some reinforcements over the January transfer window and their recent results show the need for a reliable centre-forward, even if it is an atypical one.

Gasperini will be heavily involved in the selection process and Zirkzee is at the top of his list.

The Manchester United outcast is considered to be a centre-forward, with Raspadori as a support striker who can also play in a wider role.

Why Zirkzee is the hot favourite for Roma

The former Napoli player had been appreciated by Gasperini when still in charge of Atalanta, although that was to play off centre.

So the coach would gladly bring both in, but if that is not possible, then his pick would be Zirkzee.

Now it is up to director Frederic Massara to push Manchester United into getting a deal done quickly, not waiting until mid or late January.

It is also true that Gasperini would like Yuri Alberto, but he is seen as an alternative to Zirkzee, while Beto is mentioned largely because both Everton and Roma have the same owners.

This isn’t a priority, and would only be pursued if Artem Dovbyk were to move on.

It is confirmed that Gasp also likes Giovane of Hellas Verona, who is on the wish list of Inter and Napoli already.

Raspadori is seeking a new club, seeing as he never got much playing time with Atletico Madrid, so it’d be ideal for Roma if Tommaso Baldanzi (liked by Verona) or Stephan El Shaarawy were to make way.

Jack knows that Maurizio Sarri is an admirer and would gladly take him to Lazio as a centre-forward, but a lot depends on Taty Castellanos.

We talked about Rafik Belghali a couple of weeks ago and can now confirm top Italian clubs set their sights on the Verona right-back, including Juventus, Inter and Roma.

The Algerian with a Belgian passport has been a major protagonist with Verona so far this season and is helping their climb up the table with back-to-back wins.

This operation cost €1.5m plus bonuses at the time from Mechelen, and now his value on the transfer market has increased by at least a factor of 10.

If we were to suggest around €15m for his price-tag, we wouldn’t be far off the reality of the situation.

Belghali wanted by Inter, Juventus and Roma

Now we can confirm that all the big Italian clubs appreciate Belghali and are keeping a close eye on his progress.

Juve really like him, Inter had asked for information even before the Denzel Dumfries injury and consequent surgery.

Roma appreciate the player too, despite already having Wesley on that flank, and have spoken to Verona about both Giovane and Tommaso Baldanzi.

Hellas hope to keep Belghali to the end of the season, seeing as they need all the help they can get to avoid relegation, but that depends on what offers come in.

AS Roma have officially opened negotiations with Manchester United to sign Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The initialization of the talks follows approval from the Friedkin ownership, aiming to strengthen coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s attack amid poor recent performances and the likely departure of Evan Ferguson. Sporting director Ricky Massara is […]

The post Roma make official approach for Joshua Zirkzee appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Roma make official approach for Joshua Zirkzee appeared first on Soccer News.