Roma may have been priced out of a move for Chelsea defender Davide Zappacosta, despite the English club being willing to let him leave.
The Italian has been suggested as a potential reinforcement at right-back for Roma following Rick Karsdorp’s loan to Feyenoord, having been frozen out of the picture at Chelsea.
Gianluca Petrachi both signed and sold him at Torino, and would be interested in the possibility of a reunion, as he is now effectively third choice at Stamford Bridge, behind Cesar Azpilicueta and Reece James.
However, Goal say that Chelsea have set the asking price for Zappacosta at €25m, which is beyond what Roma are willing to pay.
One solution could be a loan with an option to buy, with Chelsea manager Frank Lampard admitting that the club are exploring all options.
“Zappacosta is our player and Reece is probably out for three more weeks,” he told reporters today. “That’s a decision that will be made as we go on.
“I’ve been really impressed with Zappa’s attitude, quality and how he’s trained. We have to make sure we’re happy with the squad by the time the European window shuts.
“That will be a decision for us and of course Zappa, because I want players happy. The professionalism he has shown since he’s been here has been great and that can be an ongoing conversation.
“The decision will be what’s best for the club and for [him] individually as well.”
An alternative for Roma had been Napoli’s Elseid Hysaj, but his value also appears to be too high. Meanwhile, left-back Leonardo Spinazzola has been able to cover there in pre-season, as he is right-footed.
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