Roma signing a talented young South American player only to lose him to a mega club 18 to 24 months later; it’s a tale as old as time. A mere mention of the names Lamela, Marquinhos, and Alisson turns even the hardest Roma fan into a blubbering mess. While discovering and developing these talents is a feather in Roma’s cap, turning them over for a quick profit has seldom benefited the club in the long run.
When Roma signed 21-year-old Wesley Franca from Flamengo last summer, we knew the talented Brazilian
wasn’t likely to become a club lifer. Still, with miles to go on his developmental path, the young wingback seemed bound to the Giallorossi for at least two to three years. But here we are again: facing the prospect of losing a dynamic young talent to one of Europe’s financial behemoths.
Reports from Spain and Brazil indicate that Manchester City and Real Madrid are scouting Wesley. With figures approaching the €50 million plateau, Roma could realize a healthy profit on their €25 million investment—if they’re willing or able to resist those siren calls.
With Wesley’s quick acclimation to European football, these rumors aren’t likely to cease any time soon, but there may be a silver lining in the form of Roma’s silver-haired manager. Gian Piero Gasperini made his bones by developing exciting young talents and flipping them to larger clubs, only to repeat the process ad infinitum.
While it would undoubtedly sting to lose Wesley already, for the first time in ages, Roma feels prepared to weather that storm.
Still, it would be nice if Roma could enjoy the fruits of their labors for once.
