Roma and Juventus are reportedly monitoring Sporting CP midfielder Issa Doumbia following his impressive first start for Italy.
The 22-year-old was one of the new players selected by Roberto Mancini during the international break and started Italy’s 3-1 Nations League victory over Turkey in Bologna.
Doumbia produced an encouraging performance in midfield, strengthening his case for further opportunities as Mancini continues to rebuild the national team.
Doumbia Impresses on First Italy Start
Mancini made nine changes for the second meeting with Turkey, giving Doumbia an opportunity to demonstrate his qualities from the opening whistle.
The midfielder played the full 90 minutes and contributed to an energetic Italian performance. He was also involved in the buildup to Gianluca Scamacca’s opening goal, with his challenge helping create the loose ball eventually converted by the striker.
Doumbia’s physical strength, ball-carrying ability and presence in midfield earned positive reviews after the match.
His performance suggested that he could remain involved in Mancini’s future squads as Italy attempts to introduce more young players into the senior team.
Roma and Juventus Following Doumbia
According to transfer reporter Ekrem Konur, both Roma and Juventus were impressed by Doumbia’s performance and are monitoring his development at Sporting CP.
Roma’s interest would not be entirely new. The former Venezia midfielder was linked with the Giallorossi before completing his move to Portugal during the summer.
Doumbia fits the profile Roma have frequently targeted under the Friedkin ownership: a young player with experience in Italian football and significant potential for further development.
His combination of power and technical ability could also make him suitable for Gian Piero Gasperini’s demanding midfield system.
At this stage, however, there is no suggestion that negotiations have begun or that Sporting are prepared to sell.
Sporting Protect Doumbia With €80 Million Clause
Sporting signed Doumbia from Venezia in June and handed him a contract running until 2031.
The Portuguese club also included an €80 million release clause in the agreement, demonstrating how highly they value the midfielder and intend to protect their investment.
That figure does not necessarily represent Doumbia’s current market value, but it places Sporting in a strong negotiating position if Roma, Juventus or another club eventually makes an approach.
A January move would appear difficult given his recent arrival in Lisbon and Sporting’s confidence in his development. Roma are more likely to continue monitoring his performances rather than immediately testing the Portuguese club’s resolve.
Doumbia’s emergence with Italy will only increase the attention surrounding him. For now, Roma and Juventus have reportedly joined the list of clubs watching a midfielder whose reputation is beginning to grow beyond Portugal.
Sources: Ekrem Konur, Sporting CP
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