The clock is ticking for AS Roma as they intensify their search for a new sporting director. With time running out, the club has drawn up a shortlist of five or six candidates, hoping to make a definitive decision soon—much to the relief of manager Gian Piero Gasperini.

Roma has yet to find the ideal replacement for Ricky Massara, who departed the role. While names like Manna and D'Amico have emerged as early priority targets, the Friedkin ownership group is keeping their options open with a diverse list of contenders.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, one intriguing name has entered the conversation: Cristiano Giaretta. The former Udinese and Ascoli sporting director has been making waves abroad, currently serving at Pafos FC. Under his leadership, the Cypriot club has turned heads across European football, achieving remarkable results and even earning a spot in the Champions League qualifiers—a testament to his eye for talent and strategic planning.

Giaretta joins a list that could come into play if the top targets fall through, adding an international flair to Roma's backroom overhaul. Meanwhile, rumors of a sensational swap involving Medhi Benatia continue to swirl, with suggestions that Massara could head to Marseille while the Moroccan defender makes his way to the Italian capital. For now, though, all eyes are on who will ultimately take the reins in Roma's sporting director's office.