Roma top of the table as Dybala renewal becomes key issue amid new optimism | OneFootball

Roma have reached the international break flying high under Gian Piero Gasperini, sitting joint-top of the Serie A table alongside Napoli and rediscovering belief under their new coach.

That same wave of enthusiasm could soon carry into the club’s internal business – particularly contract renewals, according to the latest reports from TuttoMercatoWeb.

The most delicate situation concerns Paulo Dybala, who entered the final year of his deal in July.

The Argentine’s contract remains one of the most expensive in the squad, worth €7m net (around €13m gross) – a unique figure within Roma’s wage structure, as senior teammates such as Mancini, Hermoso, Pellegrini and Bailey each earn roughly half that amount.

ROME, ITALY – APRIL 13: Paulo Dybala looks on as players warm up prior to the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on April 13, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Roma face a Dybala dilemma

The challenge for Roma is to reduce salary costs while also deciding whether to extend a player whose fitness issues have disrupted his time in the capital.

Negotiations will require careful management, with the club balancing sentiment, value, and practicality as Dybala nears a decisive phase in his Roma career.

BOLOGNA, ITALY – JUNE 4: Zeki Celik of Turkiye looks on during the international Friendly match between Italy and Turkiye at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on June 4, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Celik’s turnaround and upcoming renewal

One player whose situation looks far simpler is Zeki Çelik. Revitalised first under Claudio Ranieri and now thriving with Gasperini, the Turkish defender has gone from fringe figure to key contributor. With his current deal running until June 2026, Roma intend to open talks soon over a renewal to reflect his improved status and consistent form.