According to La Gazzetta Dello Sport, AS Roma have failed to come to the same terms with Arsenal for signing Granit Xhaka. Following this unsuccessful deal, the Italian club have listed two options for the midfield position this summer. The list includes Thomas Delaney of Borussia Dortmund and Teun Koopmeiners, of AZ Alkmaar.
Roma have been after Xhaka for over a month as he was the priority signing of new coach Jose Mourinho. But the North London club Arsenal are not willing to let go of the Swiss captain for a low price.
Xhaka, whose current contract ends in 2023 with the Gunners has been priced at €22 million for this summer. However, Roma doesn’t want to pay the asking price to the London club. Following which Arsenal have decided to drop the plans to sell Xhaka this summer. While it is reported that Arsenal are preparing a new contract for the midfielder to make him stay until 2025.
However, Roma has not given up the hope to sign Xhaka this summer as they will continue to bring him until mid-August. But, to be on the safe side the Italian club are keeping in hand two options for midfield reinforcement this summer.
AS Roma’s identifies Delaney and Koopmeiners for midfiled position
AS Roma finished 7th last season in Serie A table losing spot for Champions League and Europa League. Following this, they appointed Jose Mourinho as their new coach for the next season. And the Portuguese has made it clear about signing a midfielder this summer.
The Italian club targeted Xhaka for the midfield option but they failed to reach an agreement with Arsenal for him. Following this disappointment, they have listed Delaney and Koopmeiners for midfield reinforcement.
First, Thomas Delaney, the Danish midfielder playing for Dortmund is one viable option for Roma in the midfield. Delaney has great experience in the top flight being a defensive midfielder and scoring 35 goals in his career. The Italians might get him at a cheap price with his contract expiring next year.
Second, Teun Koopmeiners, the AZ Alkmaar talent has been in good form for the last two seasons. The Dutchman has scored 30 goals in 70 appearances which have made him valued at 17 million this summer. But Roma have to hurry as their league rivals Atalanta are also in the line for the 23-year-old.
So, lets wait and see what AS Roma finally decides about their midfield situation this summer.
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