Dybala's sacrifice for Roma: new deal done

The uncertainty over the future of Roma star Paulo Dybala has come to an end. According to the news announced by Fabrizio Romano with the words "Signed, sealed", the Argentine star has completed his new deal at Roma; the official announcement is expected shortly.

This signature carries a story of sacrifice beyond an ordinary extension. The 32-year-old, whose contract expired at the end of June, leaving him technically a free agent, accepted a significant pay cut to stay at the club. The new contract will run for one year until 2027; his annual salary is reported to have dropped from around €8 million in the previous period to a range of around €3 million, supported by performance bonuses. The agreement is also said to include a one-year extension option.

The two fundamental factors behind the decision are clear. The first is the desire to play in the Champions League, to which Roma returned by finishing third last season; the second is head coach Gian Piero Gasperini placing the Argentine star at the centre of his project. The manager, who views Dybala as the technical leader of the dressing room, is said to have played a key role in the process of keeping him.

The attractive call from Argentina, meanwhile, went unanswered. Boca Juniors, who wanted to sign Dybala on a free transfer, saw their persuasion efforts through the player's close friend Leandro Paredes come to nothing. Joining Roma from Juventus in 2022 and producing 45 goals and 30 assists in 140 matches in the yellow and red shirt, Dybala remains one of the fans' most beloved figures. The Argentine star is expected to join pre-season preparations at Trigoria on Monday.

Source: Fabrizio Romano
Image: Yahoo Sports