The Argentine star remains at the center of Roma’s long-term plans, with decisive talks expected immediately after the final match of the season.
The connection between Paulo Dybala and AS Roma was impossible to miss during the emotional Derby della Capitale victory over Lazio.
The chants, the applause, the energy inside the Stadio Olimpico — everything pointed to one clear message from Roma supporters: they want “La Joya” to stay.
But despite the renewed optimism surrounding the Argentine forward, his future in the Italian capital is still not officially resolved.
Roma and Dybala remain in ongoing discussions over a contract extension, and while both sides appear interested in continuing together, negotiations have slowed in recent weeks as the club waits to understand its financial outlook for next season.
According to reports in Italy, decisive conversations are expected immediately after Roma’s final league match against Verona, when the Serie A table — and the club’s European fate — will finally be settled.
Champions League qualification could dramatically impact Roma’s budget, commercial strategy, and transfer planning, making the coming days crucial for the future of one of the team’s biggest stars.
What makes the situation particularly significant is Dybala’s willingness to compromise financially in order to remain with the Giallorossi.
The former Juventus FC playmaker has reportedly already expressed openness to restructuring his current salary, lowering the guaranteed portion of his wages and shifting toward a deal more heavily based on bonuses tied to appearances and performances.
Inside Roma, that gesture has been interpreted as a major sign of commitment from a player who has become both the emotional and technical leader of the squad.
Negotiations first began about a month ago through initial contact with sporting director Frederic Massara, but talks then entered a quiet phase with little visible progress.
That silence sparked speculation, especially while Dybala was sidelined, but his return to action against Parma — followed by his influential derby performance — immediately reignited excitement around the possibility of a renewal.
Adding further intrigue to the situation was the recent visit to Rome by Dybala’s agent, Carlos Novel. Novel arrived in the Italian capital last Friday to support the player and attend the derby at the Olimpico, fueling expectations that negotiations could accelerate.
Instead, the meeting reportedly ended without a breakthrough.
Novel left Rome on Monday morning after brief discussions with club officials, with all parties agreeing to postpone meaningful talks until the end of the season.
Still, sources close to the situation suggest the relationship between Roma and Dybala remains positive, and neither side appears interested in creating tension or forcing a separation.
There is also a symbolic element pushing toward an agreement.
Roma’s centennial celebrations are approaching, and within the club’s fanbase there is a growing feeling that the historic milestone should include Dybala as one of the faces of the project — both on the field and commercially.
Sunday’s derby only reinforced that sentiment.
With Ryan Friedkin watching from the stands, Dybala once again showed why he remains the centerpiece of Roma’s ambitions and the player supporters see as essential for the club’s future.
Now, everything may come down to one final week — and whether Roma can secure a return to the Champions League.
