It’s a glorious morning in the Romaverse, my friends. Whether you woke up to greet the rising sun or are dealing with some morning showers, Sunday is off to a rousing start because we get to talk about someone other than Antonio Nusa! While the Norwegian winger certainly isn’t without his merits (and costs a pretty penny), he effectively took himself off the market last week after claiming he never asked to leave Leipzig.
Yesterday, we stumped for Frankfurt’s forward Jean Mattéo Bahoya, but today’s
rumor takes us to Portugal. According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Roma is pursuing Porto winger Rodrigo Mora, a 19-year-old Portuguese hybrid attacking midfielder/forward.
In a report corroborated by Gianluca Di Marzio, Roma are reportedly battling Galatasaray for the talented teenager. At a slight 5’6”, Mora isn’t what you’d call a physical specimen, but his performance as a 17/18-year-old attacking midfielder in a top European league is awfully impressive. Over the past two seasons, Mora has compiled 15 goals and six assists in 3,424 minutes in all competitions.
With nimble feet, cat-like agility, and a quick shot release, Mora can carve through any defense with ease. But there is substance behind the flash. Last season alone, Mora ranked among Europe’s best midfielders in shots on target, chances created, big chances created, successful dribbles, and even long passes created—a statistical profile that would play well under Gian Piero Gasperini.
As one would expect, talent like that doesn’t come cheap. With a contract that doesn’t expire until 2030 and a rumored €70 million release clause, Porto holds all the cards. According to Di Marzio, Roma are attempting to acquire Mora on a €5 million loan with a €45 million option to buy. Sabuncuoğlu reports that Porto will reportedly accept the deal if Galatasaray delays their offer any further.
Time is running short, so if Roma has learned anything from this summer, let’s hope they move swiftly.
