Imagine the earthquake it would cause if Dybala returned to Argentina – it’s possible

Boca Juniors have confirmed their bold interest in acquiring Roma’s forward Paulo Dybala, igniting a wave of excitement and speculation across Argentina. Club director Marcelo Delgado described the potential deal as a delicate blend of "dream and reality," emphasizing that the Buenos Aires giants are ready to go to great lengths to secure the services of the World Cup winner.

The idea of Dybala trading the iconic streets of Rome for the electric atmosphere of La Bombonera has circulated quietly in South American football circles for months, but now the whispers have been validated by Boca’s leadership. Delgado, a pivotal figure on the club’s Football Council, has openly expressed the club’s ambition to bring La Joya back to Argentina.

When asked about Dybala in a media briefing on future transfer targets, Delgado spoke candidly: “Dream, illusion or reality? Dybala is a mix of all of this,” Delgado explained. “We hope to be able to make the necessary effort to bring him here, regardless of whether there is a possibility or not. The only thing I know is that his contract expires in June 2026. We will evaluate the situation and see what happens.”

With just six months remaining on his contract with Roma, Dybala could begin negotiating with other clubs as of January, potentially paving the way for a free transfer at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.

Although the Argentine remains a key figure in Serie A, the absence of a contract extension at Stadio Olimpico has fueled speculation that his European chapter may be nearing its end. Boca Juniors, under the guidance of club legend and president Juan Roman Riquelme, have built a reputation for attracting high-profile veterans seeking an emotional return to South America.

The club’s successful signing of Edinson Cavani demonstrated their ability to lure global stars, and Dybala is seen as the natural next marquee addition to boost Boca’s presence on the continental stage.

However, financial realities remain a challenge. The gap between European salaries and Argentine club budgets represents the "illusion" in Delgado’s words, necessitating either a substantial pay cut from the player or an exceptional financial package from Boca.

The club’s pursuit of Dybala is further strengthened by the presence of his close friend and World Cup-winning teammate, Leandro Paredes, who has already made the emotional journey back home. Paredes returned to Boca Juniors in July after activating a special clause in his Roma contract, fulfilling a promise to return while still at the peak of his career. Since his arrival, he has become the engine of Boca’s midfield, with influence extending well beyond the field.

Their bond goes beyond football, forged both in Italy and with the national team. In Buenos Aires, it is widely known that Paredes has taken on an unofficial role as Boca’s emissary for Dybala. In interviews leading up to his own move, he even joked about convincing Dybala, telling his daughter that "Uncle Paulo" would eventually join them in Argentina.

SERIE A ROUND 15

Friday

22.45: (2.50) Lecce (2.90) Pisa (3.35)

Saturday

17.00: (2.00) Torino (3.50) Cremonese (4.20)

20.00: (3.80) Parma (3.35) Lazio (2.15)

22.45: (1.37) Atalanta (4.80) Cagliari (9.00)

Sunday

14.30: (1.45) Milan (4.70) Sassuolo (8.00)

17.00: (1.90) Fiorentina (3.50) Verona (4.60)

17.00: (4.70) Udinese (3.50) Napoli (1.90)

20.00: (6.50) Genoa (4.20) Inter (1.53)

22.45: (3.00) Bologna (3.25) Juventus (2.60)

Monday

22.45: (2.15) Roma (3.30) Como (3.50)

* odds are subject to change