€40 million price tag forces Gasperini to rebuild Roma attack

€40 million is the price tag attached to Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa, a figure that now underscores AS Roma’s urgent hunt for a new attacker after Saudi side Al‑Hilal’s massive offer derailed the club’s near‑completion of winger Crysencio Summerville’s transfer to Serie A.

Roma had edged close to sealing the deal on Summerville, with negotiations appearing imminent. The Saudi club’s intervention halted progress, leaving the Giallorossi scrambling after many hours of talks.

The club had made key progress and was on the verge of finalising the transfer, but Al‑Hilal’s bid convinced Summerville to opt for a move outside Italy. The massive amount offered was decisive in his decision.

La Dello Sport reported massive disappointment in Rome, noting that the player was effectively in the club’s hands. Gian Piero Gasperini had spoken to Summerville repeatedly by phone and had arranged to meet him the following day, hoping to secure his signature.

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Gasperini now believes Summerville has gambled with his ambition by heading to Saudi Arabia and is turning his attention to alternative targets. The setback adds pressure as Aston Villa intensifies its pursuit of Alejandro Garnacho.

At the top of Roma’s new shortlist is Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa, valued at €40 million, a price the club says will not be a barrier. Benfica’s Andreas Schjelderup is also under consideration, alongside lesser‑known options such as Köln’s Said El Mala and PSG talent Ibrahim Mbaye.

Gasperini is keen on an attacking player and is weighing figures and valuations for all candidates. Cost is not expected to hinder the Giallorossi, which remain willing to spend on high‑profile targets.

The club’s search continues amid the broader market where Saudi clubs are offering substantial sums, reshaping transfer dynamics for Italian teams.