As anticipation grows among Roma fans regarding Paulo Dybala’s decision on his future, there is also increasing curiosity about who might step in should he choose to leave. Daniele De Rossi expressed his concerns last night in Cagliari, stating, “I would be frightened by a Roma without Dybala and without a suitable replacement.” De Rossi emphasized the need for dynamic players who can take on opponents and create numerical advantages on the pitch, suggesting he prefers attackers who resemble wingers rather than traditional forwards.
One player on Roma’s radar to fill this potential gap is Jeremie Boga. The 27-year-old Ivorian winger currently plays for Nice, a club he joined last season after being signed from Atalanta for €18 million plus €4 million in bonuses. Boga has previously shown his talent in Italy with Sassuolo, following stints at Chelsea, Rennes, Granada, and Birmingham. He is reportedly keen on moving to Roma and has reached an agreement on personal terms. However, the transfer is currently on hold for two main reasons: first, it depends on Dybala’s exit, and until that happens, Roma won’t pursue any alternatives. Secondly, Nice is asking for €20 million for Boga, a figure that Roma is trying to negotiate down.
The giallorossi management is also considering a range of other options in case they can’t finalize a deal with Nice. One name that has resurfaced in their discussions is Rodrigo Riquelme, the talented youngster from Atletico Madrid whom Roma had been tracking at the beginning of the transfer window. During a recent press conference, Atletico’s coach Diego Simeone hinted that “the squad is not closed,” implying there may be opportunities for movement. Girona is also interested in Riquelme, but should he decide to leave Atletico, his preference would likely be Roma, given his fondness for the club. Atletico is expected to ask for between €25-30 million, knowing they have other options in that position.
Another name that could soon come to the forefront is Galeno from Porto. The Brazilian winger possesses the pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability—30 goals in the last two seasons—that could help ease the pain for Roma fans if Dybala departs. Galeno’s price tag is around €30 million, but he brings with him significant appeal.
Further back in the lineup are younger prospects such as Wesley from Corinthians and Zhegrova from Lille. Zhegrova had expressed his desire to move to a bigger club earlier in the window but remained with Lille for the time being. His profile fits De Rossi’s ideals, although he typically operates more on the right flank, which could complicate his adaptation if he were to align with Roma’s needs on the left.
With the summer transfer window still open, Roma continues to evaluate its options to ensure they are prepared for whatever decision Dybala makes regarding his future.
