In a surprising twist, Paulo Dybala is on the brink of leaving AS Roma for a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Qadsiah, Soccernet.football understands.
Reports suggest the 30-year-old forward has agreed to a lucrative three-year deal with the Saudi Pro League club, worth a staggering €60 million.
This development comes after Roma gave Dybala the green light to negotiate with Al-Qadsiah, according to Calciomercato.
The Italian club’s decision reportedly stems from a mix of tactical, physical, and financial considerations, with the player’s recent injury history and the club’s new signings playing a crucial role in the move.
Dybala’s fitness has been a significant concern for Roma, as the Argentine missed 23 of the club’s 54 official matches last season due to various injuries.
This, combined with the financial burden of his contract — which would have cost Roma €16 million this year with bonuses — has led the club to reconsider his role in their future plans.
Roma has also been active in the transfer market, spending around €70 million on strikers Matías Soulé and Artem Dovbyk.
The club is now preparing for Dybala’s departure, which would allow them to re-enter the market. They are already in discussions with agent Fali Ramadani about a potential move for Nice’s Jeremie Boga.
Although Dybala’s €12 million release clause expired on July 31, Al-Qadsiah is reportedly ready to pay slightly more to ensure the transfer goes through, allowing Roma to further reshape their squad ahead of the new season.