Roma’s Dovbyk targeted by Trabzonspor with formula and medical problems
The summer transfer window is heating up for AS Roma, with striker Artem Dovbyk emerging as a target for Turkish side Trabzonspor. However, any potential deal is being complicated by the proposed structure of the transfer and concerns over the Ukrainian’s recent medical history, as reported by Football Italia.
Quick Facts
Player: Artem Dovbyk
Current club: AS Roma
Interested club: Trabzonspor
Appearances 2025/26: 18
Goals/Assists: 3 goals, 2 assists
Potential replacement: Mason Greenwood of Olympique Marseille
Injury Nightmare at the Olimpico
Dovbyk’s 2025-26 campaign was largely a write-off. The 29-year-old managed just 18 competitive appearances across Serie A and the Europa League due to a succession of injury problems that eventually required surgery. His absence was a constant frustration, yet when fit, Dovbyk still demonstrated his quality with three goals and two assists – contributions that helped Roma secure a coveted return to the Champions League. However, the physical toll and lack of rhythm have raised serious questions about his long-term reliability.
Trabzonspor’s Interest: A Deal Fraught with Complications
According to Turkish broadcaster A Spor, Trabzonspor have reignited negotiations for Dovbyk after an initial approach earlier in the window. The Black Sea club are keen to bolster their attack but are reluctant to commit to a permanent transfer upfront. They favour a loan deal with either an option or obligation to buy, whereas Roma are pushing for an outright sale to generate immediate funds. The gap in expectations over the transfer formula is the first major stumbling block.
The second, and perhaps more delicate, issue is Dovbyk’s medical record. The player’s recent injury-laden season means any prospective buyer will demand rigorous medical examinations. For Trabzonspor, who have been burned by high-profile injury-prone signings in the past, passing these tests will be non-negotiable. The outcome of those checks could make or break the transfer.
The Gasperini Factor and Roma’s Summer Rebuild
Since taking over at the Stadio Olimpico, coach Gian Piero Gasperini has made no secret that Dovbyk does not fit his high-intensity, fluid attacking system. The striker’s physical style and preference for operating as a traditional target man clash with Gasperini’s tactical blueprint. As a result, Dovbyk has been placed firmly on the transfer list, with Roma actively seeking a buyer.
The Giallorossi’s need to sell is intensified by their pursuit of Olympique Marseille winger Mason Greenwood. The former Manchester United man is Roma’s top attacking target, but Marseille’s €50 million asking price is a significant barrier. Offloading Dovbyk – even if only for a significant loan fee – would provide the financial flexibility needed to re-enter negotiations for Greenwood. For now, though, the two deals remain intertwined, with progress on one likely to accelerate the other.
What Next for Dovbyk?
Time is not on Roma’s side. With pre-season rapidly approaching, the club wants clarity on Dovbyk’s future. If Trabzonspor can agree a formula that satisfies Roma – perhaps a loan with an obligation to buy triggered by appearances – and the medical proves no roadblock, a move could materialise swiftly. Should the Turkish option collapse, Roma may need to explore alternative destinations, though few clubs have shown concrete interest given Dovbyk’s recent fitness record.
For the player, a fresh start away from the capital could be the perfect platform to reignite a career that, just 12 months ago, was full of promise. The coming weeks will determine whether Trabzonspor take that chance.
Key Takeaways
- Artem Dovbyk’s injury-plagued 2025-26 season at Roma has seen him become surplus to requirements under Gian Piero Gasperini.
- Trabzonspor are keen on the Ukrainian but want a loan, while Roma demand a permanent sale; the formula remains a sticking point.
- Any deal will hinge on Dovbyk passing rigorous medical tests due to his history of fitness issues.
- Roma need to offload Dovbyk to fund a move for Mason Greenwood, valued at €50 million by Marseille.
- The next few weeks are critical, with pre-season looming and Roma desperate for resolution.
