Roma chase Argentina right‑back Nahuel Molina after Zeki Celik exit

Roma have identified a clear vacancy at right‑back after Zeki Celik’s departure, prompting the club to turn its attention to Argentina international Nahuel Molina of Atletico Madrid. Reports are growing that the Serie A side have tabled an opening proposal of €13 million plus €3 million in add‑ons. MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 22 saw Molina celebrate a goal against Real Madrid CF in a LaLiga EA Sports match.

Roma’s first target for the position had been Givairo Read of Feyenoord. The club submitted a top bid of €25 million plus a €3 million bonus and a 10 per cent cut of any future sell‑on fee, but the offer was rejected, leaving Roma reluctant to increase their spend.

Il Tempo later reported that Roma’s current opening proposal to Atletico Madrid stands at €13 million with €3 million in add‑ons. This figure matches the amount cited in earlier reports and represents the club’s initial formal offer.

noted that Molina is considered considerably more affordable than Ivan Fresneda of Sporting CP, positioning the Argentine as the next realistic target on Roma’s transfer list.

Roma cap Read bid at €28m, eye Molina or Fresneda instead

The 28‑year‑old is entering the final season of his contract with Atletico Madrid, having joined the Spanish side in 2022. His contract situation makes a move to Serie A more feasible for both player and club.

Molina already knows Serie A, having played for Udinese from 2020 to 2022 before making a €20 million leap to LaLiga. His prior experience in Italy should aid his adaptation should the transfer materialise.

Internationally, Molina has earned 65 senior caps for Argentina and was a regular at the World Cup this summer, helping the side secure second place.

Gian Piero Gasperini and new Roma director Tony D’Amico had previously pursued Molina while working together at Atalanta. With an opening proposal on the table, Roma must now decide whether to match the rejected €25 million bid or secure the more affordable option.