Ajax head coach Michel is pushing to reunite with Artem Dovbyk in Amsterdam, as the Ukrainian striker edges towards the exit door at Roma just one year after his high-profile arrival in the Italian capital.
Michel Targets Reunion
Dovbyk faces an uncertain future at the Stadio Olimpico following an injury-plagued campaign. The 29-year-old joined the Giallorossi in a deal worth €30.5 million plus add-ons during the summer of 2024 and initially impressed, scoring 12 goals from 32 league appearances in his debut season. However, fitness troubles restricted him to merely three starts in Serie A throughout the 2025-26 term, prompting the club to consider offers despite his lengthy contract, which runs until the summer of 2029.
The Dutch club’s interest centres on Michel, who previously extracted the best from Dovbyk during their time together at Girona. The Spaniard oversaw a remarkable 2023-24 season in which the forward found the net 24 times in 36 LaLiga appearances, securing the division’s top scorer award. That prolific form convinced Roma to invest heavily, but the partnership between player and coach lasted only one season before Michel departed for Ajax.
Transfer Hurdles Remain
Negotiations between the clubs remain in the preliminary stages. Reports in Italy suggest Ajax favour a paid loan deal for Dovbyk, while Roma are insisting on an obligation to buy to guarantee a permanent departure. Financial constraints present additional hurdles, with Ajax reportedly cautious about the striker’s wage demands and his limited resale value given his age.
Genoa have also registered interest in the Ukraine international, with a transfer to the Ligurian coast offering a reunion with former Roma head coach Daniele De Rossi. Sources indicate, however, that the Rossoblu may struggle to meet the financial demands of the deal, potentially leaving Ajax as the frontrunners for Dovbyk’s signature.
No agreement has been finalised, and Roma continue to evaluate their options as they seek to streamline their attacking department. Dovbyk must now weigh whether to remain in Italy and fight for his place or accept a fresh start under familiar guidance in the Netherlands.