Key Takeaways:
- Roma have been in discussions regarding Joshua Zirkzee, who has made five substitute appearances for Manchester United this season
- Emerging Cologne talent Said El Mala, with four Bundesliga goals and two assists, has attracted Roma’s attention alongside interest from Inter, PSG, and Borussia Dortmund
- Arnaud Kalimuendo, now at Nottingham Forest, remains under consideration as an alternative transfer target if other moves fall through
Roma Seek to Bolster Attack During January Window
Roma are actively seeking to reinforce their attacking options in the upcoming January transfer window, as uncertainty remains over their pursuit of Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch striker, who previously played for Bologna, has struggled to find minutes under the management of Ruben Amorim, featuring in just five matches as a substitute this season. Eager to secure more regular football, Zirkzee would be open to a return to Serie A, and Roma have been maintaining dialogue with his representatives.
Roma monitoring El Mala’s rapid rise https://t.co/fwW3KiNFiP
— RomaPress (@ASRomaPress) November 13, 2025
Widening Net: El Mala and Kalimuendo on Roma’s Radar
With negotiations ongoing but no agreement yet reached with Manchester United regarding Zirkzee, Roma have broadened their search for offensive reinforcements. One standout name on their shortlist is Said El Mala of Cologne. The promising German-Lebanese winger has attracted significant attention across Europe after an impressive campaign in the Bundesliga, where he has recorded four goals and two assists. El Mala’s performances have also led to his inaugural senior squad selection by Julian Nagelsmann.
However, El Mala’s rising profile has seen his transfer valuation climb from €20m to €30m, with Cologne intent on retaining his services at least until the summer, unless a sizeable bid is made.
Another candidate under continued observation by Roma is Arnaud Kalimuendo of Nottingham Forest, positioned as an alternative solution if Roma are unable to finalise moves for either Zirkzee or El Mala.
