In the world of Italian football, the rumor mill is spinning fast, and according to renowned transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, AS Roma is quietly plotting a major backroom shake-up. On the latest episode of his "Caffè Di Marzio" podcast, Di Marzio peeled back the curtain on the Giallorossi's search for a new sporting director—a move that could reshape the club's future.

While Roma's immediate focus is locked on a crucial derby clash and the race for Champions League qualification, the Friedkin family is already laying groundwork for the next season. Despite Tiago Pinto's successor, Massara, still being under contract, the club has decided to bring in someone who can better align with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's vision.

At the top of their wishlist? Napoli's sporting director, Giovanni Manna. Di Marzio revealed that the Friedkins have taken the lead in this pursuit, noting that Manna was the man who pushed for Gasperini at Napoli during their Europa League final in Dublin. The two have reportedly maintained frequent and positive contact, fueling speculation of a reunion in the Italian capital.

However, there's a catch. Napoli's president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is determined to enforce Manna's contract, making a departure far from straightforward. Gasperini is reportedly "insisting" on the move, but if it falls through, Roma has a backup plan: Toni D'Amico. Currently under contract with Atalanta, D'Amico has a history with Gasperini and shares his wavelength, despite some past ups and downs.

Di Marzio also threw another name into the mix—Giuntoli, who is available and would have wanted Gasperini at Juventus had he stayed on. With so many options on the table, the Giallorossi face a pivotal decision. And as Di Marzio noted, don't be surprised if Roma once again looks abroad for a fresh face, repeating a pattern seen in recent years.

For fans and followers of the beautiful game, this behind-the-scenes drama is a reminder that in football, the action off the pitch can be just as thrilling as what happens on it. Stay tuned as Roma's next move could set the tone for a new era.