Rome Transfer Market: From the World Cup to the Giallorossi—An Offer Has Been Made, But What’s Missing?
Roma Transfer News: A standout player from the recent 2026 World Cup who played for Argentina could soon be wearing the Giallorossi jersey. The player in question is Nahuel Molina, for whom an offer has reportedly already been made to Atlético Madrid. The Colchoneros are willing to let the right back go, and he, in turn, is open to a move to Gian Piero Gasperini’s team. It remains to be seen whether the Spanish club is willing to accept the 17 million that Roma is prepared to invest for a player whose contract expires in 2028. Another sticking point is the contract: the former Udinese player currently earns a salary that would inevitably decrease if he returns to Serie A.
The negotiations are taking place amid a particularly active transfer window for the Giallorossi, who have already invested over 80 million euros this summer: 35 for Santiago Castro from Bologna, 25 to make Donyell Malen’s transfer permanent, 16.5 for Konstantinos Koulierakis from Wolfsburg, and 8 for Daniele Ghilardi from Hellas Verona. Gasperini, however, has made it clear that he is not yet satisfied with the roster at his disposal, specifically requesting a new right back following the surprise departure of Zeki Celik, who transferred to Juventus on a free transfer.
Molina’s profile perfectly meets the needs of the Grugliasco coach, who precisely outlined his requirements during a press conference: “I asked for a defender, a winger, and two forwards. When you play in the Champions League at this level, you need a complete, competitive roster with a certain number of players who can rotate without compromising the quality of the lineup.” These words capture the Roman club’s ambition and explain its determination to make a move for the Argentine fullback.
It should be noted, however, that Roma is also evaluating other options for that position. The name making the rounds in recent hours is Givairo Read, a Dutch talent currently with Feyenoord, for whom the Giallorossi have submitted an offer of 25 million plus 3 in bonuses, described by management as their final and definitive offer. The Dutch club has taken some time to consider the offer, partly while waiting to see if Nottingham Forest will decide to make a counteroffer. The outcome of these negotiations could directly influence the deal for Molina.
From a strictly sporting perspective, the performance of the Atlético Madrid fullback has never been in question. Last season in La Liga, he reaffirmed his qualities, as evidenced by a spectacular goal against Getafe—a right-footed shot from outside the box that nestled into the top corner. At the 2026 World Cup, held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Molina was one of the key players in Argentina’s run to the final, which they lost to Spain. However, the tournament ended on a stormy note for him: FIFA launched an investigation following the clashes at the final whistle of the championship match, in which Molina was involved in an incident with Rodri. This situation could have disciplinary repercussions, which Roma will necessarily have to take into account in their overall assessment of the deal.
