Roma Europa League qualification on the line in Panathinaikos clash with an eye on the market

Roma Europa League qualification hangs on Panathinaikos showdown

Roma is gearing up for their last Europa League group stage match against Panathinaikos.

They’re aiming for a spot in the round of 16 and hoping to avoid the play-offs.

The match in Greece is crucial for Gian Piero Gasperini’s men, who also talked about the Giallorossi transfer market in his pre-match press conference:

“Is there a chance we’ll see any more signings before the transfer window closes? I’m not sure. The January transfer window is always unpredictable, and the last few days have made it even more so. At this point, the sooner it closes, the better.”

Roma transfer market heats up with Sulemana inquiry

So, as they wait for the final bell to ring next Monday at 8 p.m., the Giallorossi have asked Atalanta about Kamaldeen Sulemana, who hasn’t played much with the Nerazzurri so far.

Keep an eye out for the possible departure of the Ghanaian striker, as confirmed by CEO Luca Percassi before last night’s Champions League match:

“With a large squad, some players have unfortunately had less playing time, even if perhaps undeservedly so. After this game, we’ll chat with director D’Amico and the coach again. We’ll assess the situation, and if there are any interesting offers, we’ll look into them, but we’ll keep our cool about it.”

Sulemana’s played in 21 games for Atalanta, but he’s only scored two goals — both in Turin against Torino and Juventus — and he’s only had one assist.

Napoli have also asked Atalanta for information about the 2002-born player.

The two clubs are trying to understand under what conditions Atalanta are willing to sell the Ghanaian striker who arrived in the summer from Southampton.

For this reason, further contact with the Nerazzurri is expected today.

Gasperini forced into emergency lineup for Greece

If Roma were to sign the Ghanaian winger, he’d fill a gap in Gasperini’s lineup and give the Giallorossi coach another option in his attacking lineup.

This would avoid awkward situations like tonight’s, where Roma Panathinaikos will se an emergency in attack for Giallorossi.

The injured Artem Dovbyk and Ferguson are joining Malen and Vaz, who aren’t on the roster.

Dybala’s not at the top of his game right now, so it wouldn’t be wise to risk him.

Without a center forward, Soulé and Pellegrini will get their shot. There’s also a big hole in the midfield with Koné out.

El Ayanoui and Pisilli are in the middle, and Cristante is moving up to the attacking midfield.

Ndicka and Mancini (on a yellow card) might be rested in defense, with Ziolkowski and Ghilardi getting their chance.