Paulo Dybala is set to formally restore his status as a Roma player by signing a new one-year contract, ending a brief spell as a free agent that began when his previous deal expired. The Argentina international will immediately link up with the squad, reporting to the Trigoria training base on Monday to begin pre-season work under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
The agreement is worth close to €3 million net plus bonuses, representing an improved salary for the 31-year-old playmaker. Although Dybala had initially sought a longer-term commitment, the financial package proved sufficient to satisfy both parties. The contract contains no option for an additional year.
Boca Juniors approach turned down
Dybala’s decision to remain in Rome was far from guaranteed. Boca Juniors made a determined effort to secure his return to Argentine football, with his friend and compatriot Leandro Paredes reportedly attempting to talk him into a homecoming. However, Dybala maintained a consistent preference for staying with the Giallorossi, opting to continue his career in Serie A rather than make the emotional return to his former club.
The resolution provides clarity for a player who represents a significant technical asset in the Roma dressing room. Gasperini specifically intends to build his attacking structure around Dybala’s creative abilities as the club prepares for a return to the Champions League.
Creative influence in qualification push
Dybala’s importance was evident during the closing stages of last season. Following an injury lay-off, he provided four assists in his first three starts back in the side, directly contributing to Roma’s successful pursuit of third place and automatic qualification for Europe’s premier club competition.
Securing his signature preserves that attacking threat ahead of a demanding campaign that will see Roma compete on multiple fronts. The club’s return to the Champions League places additional emphasis on retaining experienced, high-quality performers capable of influencing matches at the highest level.
With the contract situation now resolved, attention turns to Dybala’s fitness and integration into Gasperini’s tactical system during the coming weeks.