As the summer transfer window opens, AS Roma is exploring options to strengthen their attacking lineup. Reports suggest that Dan Ndoye, a Swiss winger currently with Nottingham Forest, has been offered to the Italian club.
Dan Ndoye: A Serie A Prospect for Roma?
The 24-year-old Swiss international, Dan Ndoye, is familiar to Serie A followers. He previously played for Bologna during the 2023-24 season, where he excelled as a high-energy winger under Thiago Motta. His impressive performances for Bologna, which included helping the team qualify for the Champions League and earning a spot in Switzerland’s Euro 2024 squad, caught the attention of several European clubs.
Before his move to the Premier League, Ndoye was reportedly of interest to Napoli and Inter Milan. Nottingham Forest eventually secured his signature for a substantial fee, reported to be around €40 million plus add-ons. However, his time at Forest has not lived up to expectations. A player who thrives on carrying the ball and facilitating play found himself in a role that didn’t suit his strengths, reportedly tasked with providing a direct vertical threat.
Why Ndoye Might Be Available
The approach for Ndoye appears to be driven by his representatives, who are actively seeking new opportunities for the player. Nottingham Forest, having finished outside European qualification this season, may not offer the continental stage or the tactical environment that Ndoye’s game requires. There’s a sentiment that he has been asked to adapt to a role that is fundamentally different from his natural abilities.
Given the initial investment, it remains uncertain whether Nottingham Forest would sanction a sale and at what valuation. A loan-to-buy arrangement might be a more feasible option, allowing all parties to assess the situation while Ndoye potentially rebuilds his form in a familiar league.
Ndoye’s Potential Fit for Roma
Roma, under manager Gian Piero Gasperini, has shown interest, and it aligns tactically. Gasperini’s system often features dynamic, high-pressing wingers who contribute both with and without the ball, a profile Ndoye demonstrated effectively at Bologna. A return to Serie A could be beneficial for the player.
With the recent signing of Donyell Malen, Roma is already making moves to enhance their attack. Adding Ndoye would provide Gasperini with more width and pressing intensity on either flank. While not a guaranteed starter, his versatility across different systems makes him a valuable option for squad depth.
The Zirkzee Factor
However, Roma’s primary transfer target this summer is Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United. It’s unlikely that the club will pursue multiple significant signings for the same position concurrently. Ndoye’s potential move to Roma is contingent on how their pursuit of Zirkzee progresses. If the Zirkzee deal stalls due to negotiations on fees, wages, or Manchester United’s willingness to sell, Ndoye could become a more immediate priority.
The financial aspect of any potential transfer for Ndoye also remains a consideration, as Nottingham Forest would likely be reluctant to incur a significant loss on a player acquired for a high fee less than a year ago.
What’s Next?
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of both Zirkzee and Ndoye’s potential move. Should Roma’s pursuit of Zirkzee face obstacles, the offer for Dan Ndoye could gain significant traction. For Ndoye, a return to Serie A, where he has previously thrived, is an attractive prospect, and the structured, high-intensity environment at Roma under Gasperini seems well-suited to his style of play. The offer has been made; now, it’s up to AS Roma to decide whether to pursue it.
