The 18-year-old striker is valued at €25–30m, won’t renew his contract, and could get an immediate starring role in Rome
AS Roma are already thinking beyond the present. While the arrival of Giacomo Raspadori is edging closer and the Joshua Zirkzee track has suddenly cooled, sporting director Frederic Massara has identified a new, ambitious target: Robinio Vaz, an 18-year-old attacking gem currently at Olympique de Marseille.
Vaz, a French striker of Guinean origin, is considered one of the most exciting prospects in Ligue 1. His talent has not gone unnoticed: several Premier League heavyweights — notably Chelsea and Manchester City — are monitoring him closely, with Bayern Munich also reported to be ready to step in.
Why Roma believe they have an edge
Competition is fierce, but Roma believe their project can make the difference. Unlike English clubs, who might sign Vaz only to loan him out elsewhere, the Giallorossi are prepared to offer him an immediate, central role in Gian Piero Gasperini’s new cycle.
At Marseille, Vaz’s minutes have been limited by the presence of experienced forwards such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mason Greenwood. Despite this, his impact in flashes has been enough to convince Roma that his ceiling is extremely high.
Crucially, Vaz has no intention of renewing his contract with Marseille, a factor that has pushed the French club to open the door to a sale.
Talks underway, valuation set
According to reports from France and Italy, Roma and Marseille have already held direct talks after an initial official contact. The Ligue 1 club is currently valuing the teenager between €25 and €30 million, with Roma now internally assessing whether to make such a significant investment.
The Giallorossi are also in close contact with Vaz’s entourage, hoping to secure a strategic advantage before the Premier League giants decide to accelerate.
Market domino effect in Trigoria
Roma’s interest in Vaz has intensified as the situation around Zirkzee has stalled. Following the dismissal of Rúben Amorim, Manchester United have frozen outgoing operations, complicating any deal for the Dutch striker.
Roma, however, were not caught unprepared. Vaz is seen as a long-term cornerstone, a player to build around rather than a short-term solution.
Meanwhile, Roma continue parallel talks for defensive reinforcements, with Radu Dragusin still pushing for a move from Tottenham. His agent has made it clear: Italy — and Rome in particular — remains Dragusin’s priority.
A bold move for a new Roma
Investing €30 million in an 18-year-old is a statement. But at Trigoria, the belief is strong: Robinio Vaz is not just a prospect — he’s a potential star ready to explode.
If Roma decide to go all in, they won’t just be buying talent. They’ll be betting on the future.
