According to previous reports from the "Corriere dello Sport", an American consortium named "New England Sports Ventures" is currently in negotiations with the Rothschild family regarding the acquisition of AS Roma. There have been several rounds of talks already held in both Rome and New York. The New England Sports Ventures has guaranteed that they will make a bid between January 15th and January 20th. On January 4th, the latest report from "Corriere dello Sport" revealed that the American consortium is now just one step away from taking over Roma. Currently, there is only a 10% gap remaining between them and the UniCredit Bank. This American consortium has decided to appoint former Roma sporting director Frank Baldini as the general manager. At that time, Baldini will serve as the full representative of the new owner within the club.
This Italian media outlet disclosed that a few days before Christmas, a group of Italians attended a banquet in Cape Town, the legislative capital of South Africa. They were: Frank Baldini, Gianluca Vialli, and Massimo Mauro. Previously, all three had close ties to Italian football, and football was an inevitable topic of discussion for them. They also mentioned the future of Roma and the contract renewal issue with Mexes. "Corriere dello Sport" even simulated the content of their conversation based on available information. Frank Baldini stated, "Yes, my American friends have acquired Roma FC. Afterwards, I will take on the role of the new general manager of Roma." Regarding Mexes, he said, "We have reached an agreement, and he will sign a four-year long-term contract." It is worth noting that it was none other than then-manager Baldini who strongly advocated for Roma to sign Mexes in 2004, and the two share an extraordinary relationship.
There has been new progress regarding the change of ownership at Roma and the contract renewal with Mexes. On January 4th, "Corriere dello Sport" reported that the American consortium is nearing the takeover of Roma, with only a 10% gap remaining between them and UniCredit Bank. Once the American consortium takes over, former Roma sporting director Frank Baldini will return to the Giallorossi. It is understood that Baldini has secretly reached an agreement with Mexes for a four-year contract renewal.
Regarding the rumors of Frank Baldini's return to Roma, "Roma News Network" interviewed Massimo Mauro on January 4th. He stated, "I hope Frank Baldini returns to Roma because he is an outstanding sporting director. Recently, I went skiing in Fassa, and I just returned last night. In South Africa, I discussed some business matters with my friends. A year ago, I knew that Angelini was interested in acquiring Roma. If Angelini takes over Roma, Frank Baldini will also be entrusted with important responsibilities. However, I am unaware of everything that followed. Currently, Adriano is facing many issues. Nevertheless, Roma is trying every method to help him recover. I hope the young man can repay the efforts of Roma's upper management."
In addition to renewing contracts with key players, the new owners are also considering hiring a renowned coach to lead Roma. Currently, Ranieri's contract with Roma has only six months remaining, and no renewal has been agreed upon yet. "Corriere dello Sport" revealed that Frank Baldini may very likely seek out a prestigious coach for Roma at that time.