AS Roma have pulled out of negotiations to sign midfielder Franck Kessié, deeming the financial demands too high for the club. The news, reported by LAROMA24, comes after Atalanta moved ahead of Juventus in the race for the player earlier this week.
Why the Kessié deal broke down
The primary reason for the halt is financial. According to reports, the demands from the player's agent and his current club, Al-Ahli, exceeded the threshold Roma were willing to pay. The Giallorossi assessed the deal and decided to withdraw, considering the investment unsustainable for the club's finances. This scenario opened up after talks between Kessié and Juventus, which seemed close to completion, suddenly stalled, allowing Atalanta to step in with a more convincing offer.
Where Daniele De Rossi's squad currently stands
Daniele De Rossi's team approaches this transfer moment from a strong position in the league. After the first matchday, Roma are second in Serie A with 3 points from one win. Their goal difference is a perfect +4, having scored 4 goals and conceded none. The top scorer in this young season is Donyell Malen, who netted a hat-trick on his debut. The squad, however, is dealing with significant absentees: both Devyne Rensch and captain Lorenzo Pellegrini are currently sidelined with injuries. You can track the squad's status on our injuries page.
What's next for the Giallorossi
The next league challenge is just around the corner. Roma will play away at Lecce on Sunday, 31 August. The Salentini currently sit fifth in the table, making the match an important test. A win would allow De Rossi's side to keep pace with leaders AC Milan, whom they currently trail by 3 points. The upcoming fixture list can be checked on our fixtures page, while the live league table is available in the standings section.
What this halt means for Roma's transfer market
The failure to land Kessié leaves a gap in midfield that the management will need to address. With captain Pellegrini injured, the search for reinforcement in that area remains a priority, but the club must now look at other targets or rely more on existing squad players. The decision not to force the deal shows prudent budget management, preferring financial sustainability over an expensive purchase at any cost. The transfer window is closing, and the coming days will be decisive in understanding the club's final strategy.
