AS Roma is on the hunt for a new sporting director following the imminent departure of Frederic Massara, and the club has set its sights on Napoli’s Giovanni Manna as the top candidate. According to renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Manna has earned high praise from Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who considers him a standout figure in the sport. However, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis views Manna as integral to the club’s long-term vision, making any potential move a challenging negotiation.

Meanwhile, Massara is one of three contenders for the sporting director role at Marseille, though French club OM is increasingly leaning toward Gregory Lorenzi as their preferred choice. In a twist that could impact Roma’s search, Marseille has also considered Al-Ittihad’s Ramon Planes, a name that is now circulating among several Italian clubs. Planes, currently the sporting director in Saudi Arabia, is reportedly open to a return to Italy and could emerge as a viable option for the Giallorossi if their pursuit of Manna stalls.

As Roma looks to solidify their backroom staff for the upcoming season, Planes remains a name to watch in Serie A, adding intrigue to an already busy summer transfer window.