With both Thomas Vermaelen not being asked back, and with Kostas Manolas seemingly set for a move to Zenit next month, Roma suddenly finds themselves in the market for a new central defender. And while we’d all love to turn back time and get an in his prime Philippe Mexes back, due to the immutable laws of physics and relativity, that ain’t happening.
As it stands right now, the core of Roma’s defense will be built around Antonio Rüdiger, Federico Fazio and their newest addition, Hector Moreno. Despite his disallowed goal yesterday against Russia in the Confederations Cup, Moreno profiles as the skilled, technical defender Eusebio Di Francesco’s system requires.
However, as we all know, you need more than three central defenders to survive in three competitions. Enter Juan Foyth. While no move is imminent, according to various social media gadflies, Roma has lodged a bid for the 19-year-old Estudiantes central defender. Foyth, valued at roughly €6.5 million is also being tracked by Tottenham Hotspur.
On his potential move to Roma, Foyth was quick to praise the capital club:
I read it on social media, so I asked my agents for more information and they confirmed to me the news about a Roma offer was real
Roma are one of the most important clubs in the world, so anyone would love to play there. It’d be wonderful! Now I am focused on Estudiantes games, then once the tournament is over, we’ll see how the situation evolves.
They are certainly ready to get back to winning ways, as Roma have a great squad and the potential to win. They are also accustomed to always fighting for the top spots in Serie A.
It’d be marvellous to play at the Stadio Olimpico. I saw Francesco Totti’s farewell to the crowd and he represents the best of the club. The love he showed for the Giallorossi jersey is indelible and the whole world will remember him forever.
I have no idea how or why signing a 19-year-old kid will help Roma topple Juventus, but you have to love what you just read. While Monchi is renowned for scouring the globe to find young talent, I can’t imagine Foyth is being purchased as a direct replacement for Manolas; that would be a decided step down.
Roma has never lacked in the youth department, so I suppose we can add Foyth to the portfolio, but with such massive sales being countered by such piddling purchases, Roma fans can only remain silent for so long.