BUENOS AIRES, May 16 (Xinhua) -- World Cup-winning forward Paulo Dybala could return to his native Argentina to play for Boca Juniors, according to widespread media reports.

The 32-year-old's contract with Roma is due to expire next month and the Italian Serie A club has given no indication that it will be extended.

Boca officials have opened preliminary talks with Dybala's representatives in a bid to secure the attacker during Argentina's mid-year transfer window, news outlet TyC Sports reported on Saturday.

It added that his close relationship with former Roma and Argentina teammate Leandro Paredes, who returned to boyhood club Boca last year, could influence his decision.

Dybala has battled injuries this season, scoring three goals and providing five assists in 25 appearances across all competitions.

He has been capped 40 times for Argentina and was a member of the squad that won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. ■