Alejandro Garnacho set to join AS Roma after Chelsea transfer talks advance

Alejandro Garnacho has told Chelsea he wants to join AS Roma this summer, with Serie A rivals closing in on a deal structure that suits both clubs.

The Argentine winger’s stance could force Chelsea to accept Roma’s preferred loan-with-obligation-to-buy model, sources close to the talks confirm. Roma see Garnacho as a key attacking target after Stephan El Shaarawy’s free-agent exit left a wide-area void.

What’s driving the move?

Garnacho’s push for Roma stems from his desire to play under Gian Piero Gasperini, according to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The Serie A side has spent days lining up a deal that gives them flexibility in a tight market, while Chelsea insist on financial guarantees before sanctioning a permanent sale.

Chelsea paid £40 million for Garnacho last summer but have yet to see the returns they expected. Roma, meanwhile, need Champions League football and view Garnacho’s pace and versatility as essential depth for the new campaign.

Where the talks stand now

Negotiations hinge on two sticking points: Chelsea’s demand for a fixed fee or guaranteed-buy clause, and Roma’s preference for a loan with a future purchase option. The clubs have explored several targets, but Garnacho remains their top shortlist pick.

Talks between intermediaries and the two clubs continue behind closed doors. Roma remain optimistic that Garnacho’s willingness to move will help bridge the gap, while Chelsea stress they won’t budge on value.

What comes next for Garnacho?

An agreement could arrive within days if both sides find middle ground. Garnacho’s preference has already shifted the momentum, but the final structure still needs Chelsea’s approval.

Roma’s attacking rebuild now rides on whether they can convince Chelsea to accept a deal that defers part of the fee. For Garnacho, the wait is nearly over-but the last hurdle remains financial.

*On 19 July 2026, transfer talks between Chelsea and AS Roma over Alejandro Garnacho’s future intensified as the Argentine winger prioritised a move to the Italian capital.*