A surprise move by Paulo Dybala from Roma to Saudi Arabia is looking increasingly likely. According to Argentine journalist Cesar Luis Merlo, the 29-year-old Argentinian striker has decided to accept a three-year, €60 million contract offer from Al-Qadsiah. The Saudi club has already recruited other stars such as former Real Madrid captain Nacho and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Olympique de Marseille. Roma and Al-Qadsiah must now reach an agreement on the terms of the transfer.
There are many reasons for this imminent departure. Roma had already authorized Dybala to enter into negotiations with the Saudi Pro League team, making it clear that he was no longer an integral part of the current technical project. The decision was prompted by a number of factors, including tactical considerations by Daniele De Rossi and the club, concerns over Dybala’s fitness (he missed 23 of last season’s 54 games due to injury), as well as financial reasons. With bonuses, Dybala would have cost Roma around €16 million this year, and the club has already spent almost €70 million to recruit strikers Soulé and Dovbyk. Moreover, Dybala’s contract, which expires in 2025, includes an automatic renewal clause for a further season if he plays at least 50% of the games (at least 45 minutes per game).
Regarding negotiations between the two clubs, it should be noted that Dybala’s €12 million release clause expired on July 31. However, Al-Qadsiah are considering offering a slightly higher sum to facilitate the transfer. This would enable Roma to quickly reinvest in the market, with discussions already underway to recruit Jeremie Boga, the former Sassuolo striker currently under contract with Nice until June 2027, who has reportedly already given his agreement.