Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has urgently requested a summit with the club's owners, Dan and Ryan Friedkin, to discuss plans for next season, with the future of Paulo Dybala a central issue. According to reports from Italy, Gasperini, who is already planning for the 2026-27 campaign, has identified the Argentine playmaker as a crucial part of his project and will push for his retention. Dybala's current contract expires at the end of this season, leaving him free to depart on a free transfer.
The imminent meeting, which could involve a call with Dan Friedkin or an in-person visit from Ryan, will also cover the appointment of a new sporting director and pre-season plans. However, the Dybala situation is considered a priority. The manager has reportedly left it to the ownership to structure a financially viable new deal, which would likely involve a significant reduction from his current reported salary of 8 million euros per year. Potential formulas could include a performance-based contract or a deal heavily weighted with appearance bonuses.
Dybala, often referred to as 'La Joya', is understood to be tempted by a potential move to Boca Juniors in Argentina, where his friend and former Roma teammate Leandro Paredes awaits. The player himself recently acknowledged the interest, stating that Paredes and his wife "press him every day" about a move, but he insisted his focus remains on Roma until the season concludes, with a decision to be made in May. His injury history this season, which has limited his availability, is a key factor in Roma's desire to restructure his terms.
For Gasperini, retaining a player of Dybala's technical quality is seen as essential for competing at a higher European level. The manager also reportedly wishes to keep captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, viewing him as a reliable and functional piece for his system. Gasperini is said to be particularly keen on seeing Dybala form a partnership with winger Donyell Malen, a combination he has witnessed for only 92 minutes across matches against Torino and Milan, but which showed promising signs.
The final four Serie A matches of the season, against Fiorentina, Parma, Lazio, and Verona, now carry added significance for Dybala's future. A return to scoring form at the Stadio Olimpico, where he last netted in December 2024, could strengthen Gasperini's case. The manager's push underscores a belief within the club that the team's performance and potential are markedly different with Dybala in the side. The outcome of the discussions with the Friedkin family will set the tone for Roma's ambitious summer rebuild under their new coach.
