ROME — Gian Piero Gasperini has issued a clear ultimatum to AS Roma’s hierarchy: if he is to remain accountable for the team’s results, his transfer-market demands must be met. In a press conference ahead of Roma’s upcoming Serie A fixture against Sassuolo, the veteran coach declared he has “ideas on how to strengthen the squad” and expects the club to back him financially.

“If I have responsibilities, it’s right that I am supported,” Gasperini told reporters on Sunday. “This is a great team that shouldn’t be dismantled, but rather improved.” His comments reach amid growing frustration over Roma’s recent form, including a 1-0 defeat to AC Milan on April 26, where Paulo Dybala suffered a thigh injury while missing a late penalty — his first spot-kick failure in 19 attempts for the club.

The Core of Gasperini’s Plan

Gasperini’s vision for Roma centers on retaining key players while adding targeted reinforcements. According to Il Tempo, the coach has identified three players he considers non-negotiable:

• Paulo Dybala: Despite injury concerns, Gasperini praised the Argentine forward as “a great player” and expressed hope for his swift return. Dybala’s contract expires in 2027, but negotiations over a renewal have stalled due to wage demands.
• Lorenzo Pellegrini: The Roma captain is reportedly set for a new deal, though the club is pushing for a salary reduction from his current €4.5 million base salary (plus €2 million in bonuses) to around €2 million annually.
• Zeki Çelik: The Turkish right-back is also in Gasperini’s plans, though his future remains uncertain as contract talks drag on.

Gasperini also confirmed that Bryan Cristante and Gianluca Mancini — both under contract until 2027 — will remain part of his core group. However, Stephan El Shaarawy, whose contract expires in three months, is expected to leave the club.

Financial Constraints and Wage Bill Reduction

Roma’s ownership, led by the Friedkin Group, has prioritized reducing the wage bill as part of a broader financial restructuring. This has created tension with Gasperini’s demands for reinforcements. The club’s reported offer to Pellegrini — a 55% pay cut — underscores the financial tightrope Roma are walking.

“The main issue remains the renewal of the number 7 [Pellegrini],” Gasperini acknowledged. “The club intends to offer a contract that balances financial needs with my technical demands. It’s a delicate situation, but we’re working on it.”

Attacking Woes and Tactical Adjustments

Roma’s struggles in front of goal have been a recurring theme this season. The team has failed to score in two of their last four Serie A matches, a stark contrast to their previous 30 games, where they blanked just twice. Gasperini admitted the issue is “unusual” for a team under his management, citing a lack of familiarity with attacking the opposition penalty area.

“In attack, as in defense, we need to play as a unit with the right positions to shake off marking,” he said. “We need everyone back to full fitness, and then they have to give a response.”

Evan Ferguson, the 21-year-old Irish striker signed last summer, has been a particular disappointment. Gasperini criticized Ferguson’s recent performances, stating, “He is evidently not giving the right response. Only yesterday did I see him with his first really good training session.” The coach emphasized that Ferguson must “work harder” to adapt to Roma’s system, noting that physicality alone isn’t enough for a center-forward.

Dybala’s Injury: A Blow to Roma’s Ambitions

Dybala’s thigh injury, sustained while taking the penalty against AC Milan, has added to Gasperini’s headaches. The Argentine had been Roma’s most consistent attacking threat, and his absence will likely extend beyond the international break. “When it happens like that, it can be serious,” Gasperini said. “It’s a shame given that he was playing like the great player he is.”

With Dybala sidelined and Ferguson struggling, Roma’s attacking options are limited. Artem Dovbyk has recently been preferred as the starting striker, but Gasperini’s comments suggest he is open to further reinforcements in the summer transfer window.

What’s Next for Roma?

Roma’s immediate focus shifts to their Serie A clash against Sassuolo on Sunday, April 28 (14:00 GMT / 16:00 local time). A victory would keep their top-four hopes alive, but another poor result could intensify scrutiny on Gasperini’s future.

In the transfer market, Gasperini’s demands are clear: retain the core, add quality, and avoid dismantling the squad. Whether Roma’s ownership can meet those demands — while adhering to financial constraints — will determine the club’s trajectory for the 2026/27 season.

For real-time updates on Roma’s transfer plans and team news, follow AS Roma’s official website and Serie A’s official channels.

What do you think of Gasperini’s demands? Should Roma back him in the transfer market? Share your thoughts in the comments below.