Over the past week or so, the Italian press has reported on doubts regarding Lorenzo Pellegrini’s future at AS Roma. Now, Crystal Palace and Bournemouth are named as suitors for the midfielder.
The Italian was once tipped to replicate Francesco Totti at Roma. While those comparisons were far-fetched, Pellegrini did become club captain at the age of 25.
However, the past two seasons have seen the midfielder’s prominence fade and Marco Giordano reports Crystal Palace and Bournemouth are interested.
The journalist claims Roma are open to the 29-year-old’s sale and are ready to discuss an exit.
Calciomercato have some more information about Pellegrini’s situation, reporting the Italian international earns €6m per season, likely after tax, and this is proving to be a burden on Roma’s accounts.
Plus, the Azzurri player has not made a mark in the past two seasons and his performances aren’t justifying his hefty salary. As a result, Roma have not held any contact regarding a new contract and Pellegrini hasn’t played a single pre-season game under new manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
This can prove to be an opportunity for Crystal Palace and Bournemouth, who are blessed with more financial resources than most Serie A clubs.