Crysencio Summerville has unexpectedly turned down a move to Roma, opting instead to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, according to reports from Italy. The news comes as a surprise to the Serie A club, who believed they had done everything possible to secure the Dutch winger’s signature.
Roma’s sporting director, Tony D’Amico, had reportedly offered West Ham €47 million plus €4 million in bonuses for Summerville, along with a contract worth €4.2 million per year plus bonuses. This would have made the 24-year-old the most expensive and highest-paid player in Roma’s history. The club had even arranged for Summerville to travel from Rotterdam to Rome, anticipating a swift completion of the transfer.
The decision has been met with disappointment at Roma, with some within the club questioning Summerville’s motivation for choosing the Saudi Pro League over the opportunity to compete in the Champions League. While the financial offer from Al-Hilal is substantial, concerns have been raised about a player of his age choosing a league considered less competitive.
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini was also reportedly confident of securing Summerville’s services, having held multiple conversations with the player. The club is now pivoting to alternative targets to fill the left wing position. Antonio Nusa of RB Leipzig is currently the primary target, with a valuation of at least €40 million. Other options being considered include Andreas Schjelderup of Benfica, and young prospects Ibrahim Mbaye of Paris Saint-Germain and Said El Mala of Cologne. Mbaye is valued around €30 million, but PSG are reluctant to sell, potentially only offering a loan deal, while El Mala is valued at around €50 million, a figure Roma are carefully considering given his age and development stage.
Roma's pursuit of Garnacho is complicated by interest from Aston Villa, and a move for Endrick appears to have been blocked by Jose Mourinho. The situation highlights the challenges Roma face in strengthening their squad this summer, despite having significant financial resources available.
