Roma are making significant moves in the transfer market as the window nears its close. The club is in advanced negotiations for Lucas Gourna-Douath, a promising midfielder from Red Bull Salzburg. This development comes in the wake of Manu Koné’s injury during a recent match against Napoli, prompting Roma to seek reinforcements in midfield.
Calciomercato report that the proposed deal for Gourna-Douath is structured as a loan with an option to buy, a formula that has become increasingly popular in modern football transfers. Discussions between Roma and Salzburg are progressing rapidly, with the player reportedly having already agreed to personal terms with the Italian club.
Roma’s interest in Gourna-Douath represents a shift in their transfer strategy. The club had previously considered Anderson from Nottingham Forest, but the English side’s high asking price led Roma to explore other options. Interestingly, Gourna-Douath was once a target for AC Milan, with the club’s scouting department familiar with him from his time at Saint-Etienne.
The potential arrival of a new midfielder at Roma could have ripple effects within the squad. Bryan Cristante, a versatile midfielder who has been a staple in Roma’s lineup, may be on the move in the final hours of the transfer window. Both Fiorentina and AC Milan have expressed interest in Cristante.
Fiorentina see Cristante as an alternative if their pursuit of Fagioli falls through, with sporting director Pradé reportedly an admirer of the player. Milan’s interest is partly driven by squad registration rules, as Cristante, having come through their youth academy, would count as a homegrown player. This could be particularly valuable for Milan if Bennacer completes his rumoured move to Marseille.
