The Brazilian winger was previously requested by the coach in 2024, when Ademola Lookman appeared set to leave Atalanta. Now, a deal seems feasible, potentially marking another exchange between Roma and Marseille.<\/p>\n
The relationship between Roma and Marseille has been strong since the Punic Wars, when ancient Massalia (the Greek name for the current French city) was a loyal ally of the Roman Republic, thanks to its naval fleets. In football, too, the synergy between the clubs has been decidedly positive in recent years. From Rudi Voeller’s move back in 1992 to more recent transfers involving players such as Veretout, Strootman, Pau Lopez, Vainqueur, Under, and Vaz. This bond was further strengthened by the presence of Medhi Benatia (who resigned as sporting director three weeks ago) and Federico Balzaretti as assistant sporting director.<\/p>\n
Not Just Greenwood\u2014 \u00a0<\/p>\n
Roma’s focus has now shifted to Mason Greenwood. Negotiations have only recently begun, partly due to Marseille’s need to raise funds to avoid exclusion from European competitions. However, the English forward (also courted by Fenerbahce and reportedly attracting initial interest from Atletico Madrid) is not the only target on Gasperini’s wishlist for the French club. The coach has long held a high regard for Igor Paixao. The Brazilian left-winger was close to joining Atalanta in 2024 when Ademola Lookman’s departure seemed imminent. Both Gasperini and D’Amico were convinced of his qualities. However, the Nigerian forward’s move was postponed, and Paixao remained at Feyenoord, continuing to score and attract interest from several European clubs. Among them was Roma, who last year made an attempt to bring the Brazilian to Gasperini’s side in a desperate search for a left-winger. Marseille ultimately outmanoeuvred the competition, offering \u20ac30 million plus bonuses and being able to offer Champions League participation. Paixao was a key player in that competition, scoring four goals in eight matches. His total tally across league and cup competitions was 12 goals and seven assists in 30 appearances \u2013 a respectable return.<\/p>\n
The Costs\u2014 \u00a0<\/p>\n
Like Greenwood, who plays on the right wing, Paixao is also likely to depart due to Marseille’s aforementioned financial issues. For this reason, Paixao’s valuation is not expected to exceed \u20ac35 million plus bonuses. This is similar to the price tag for West Ham’s Summerville, another strong candidate for a left-wing position that requires a Champions League-level investment. Paixao, incidentally, possesses all the characteristics Gasperini admires: he is exceptionally quick in tight spaces and devastating in one-on-one situations, utilising his low centre of gravity. He prefers to cut in from the left flank and shoot towards goal with his stronger right foot but can be deployed on either wing. His salary is also considered affordable. The Brazilian, who was overlooked by Carlo Ancelotti for the World Cup, earns approximately \u20ac3 million net per season.<\/p>\n