AS Roma is gearing up for significant changes as the transfer window heats up, particularly concerning midfielder Bryan Cristante. Recent reports suggest Cristante’s tenure with the club might be approaching its end, with both AC Milan and Fiorentina showing interest in acquiring the talented midfielder.
According to Gianluigi Longari on Sportitalia, Cristante’s agent is actively exploring options for the player, pushing for moves as the deadline looms. This movement follows Roma's agreement to sign Lucas Gourna-Douath on loan from Salzburg, with the proposal including a buy option at the end of the season. This deal amplifies the urgency for Roma to secure Cristante's departure as they restructure their squad.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed on multiple platforms, including Calciomercato, the advanced negotiations for Gourna-Douath, stating, "Roma is negotiating with the Austrian club, and discussions are progressing smoothly." The impending arrival of Gourna-Douath signals Roma's intention to refresh its midfield options, potentially paving the way for Cristante's exit.
The interest from Fiorentina appears particularly firm as they seek midfield reinforcements. Initially targeting Nicolò Fagioli of Juventus, Fiorentina has pivoted to Cristante as they look for feasible alternatives. It reflects their need for depth following setbacks in their pursuit of Fagioli, who remains high on their list but carries substantial asking price hurdles from Juventus.
Meanwhile, AC Milan, with its historical ties to Cristante, is also monitoring the situation closely. With rumors swirling about the potential exit of midfielder Ismaël Bennacer to Marseille, Milan sees Cristante as a sensible replacement, especially considering his roots in their youth system. "Bryan Cristante has been mentioned as potentially useful for Milan, particularly if Bennacer departs," noted sources from PM News, demonstrating Milan's urgency to solidify their midfield.
Recent performances have led to tensions at Roma, culminating in Cristante receiving booing from supporters during the last match. Sources indicate this has affected his standing within the team and could be why discussions of his exit have amplified. Cristante appears to have sensed his diminishing role at Roma, where new signings and strategic changes have altered the club's direction.
He joined Roma after successful stints at both Atalanta and Benfica, gradually cementing himself as a core part of the squad. Yet, the changes under coach Claudio Ranieri have made his position precarious. Reports suggest the Giallorossi club could finalize Cristante’s departure if they successfully smooth the acquisition of Gourna-Douath, potentially by the end of the transfer window.
While Fiorentina is currently the frontrunner, Milan is not fully out of the picture. The Rossoneri's director is reportedly weighing their options closely, mindful of the roles each player could play for the team's ambitions moving forward. With less than 24 hours left before the transfer window closes, both clubs are poised to make swift financial decisions. The stakes are high, and the outcome could significantly impact both teams as they head toward the second half of the season.
The situation remains fluid, and as both Fiorentina and Milan vie for Cristante's services, the club will need to balance its negotiations for Gourna-Douath and the impending decisions relayed about Cristante. Fans from all sides are waiting with bated breath as to whether they will secure the services of the talented midfielder.
Expectations are high for this winter transfer window, and both fanbases are anxious to see how these significant moves play out. Will Cristante finally move back to Milan, or will Fiorentina succeed where others have faltered? Only time will tell as the clock ticks down on this dynamic transfer season.