What happened: AS Roma has received a contract counter-proposal from Paulo Dybala as the two sides move toward a formal extension. The development indicates a narrowing gap between the club's offer and the forward's expectations following weeks of negotiation.

Why it matters: Retaining Dybala remains the centerpiece of Roma's summer plans. A finalized deal would secure the team's primary creative engine through the 2026-27 season and eliminate the risk of a free-agent exit when his current terms expire this month.

What to watch: Roma management is expected to review the counter-proposal immediately. Both parties aim to seal the agreement before the current contract officially expires on June 30.