AS Roma take on Celtic in the Europa League on Thursday. There’s much excitement in the Italian media about the trip to Celtic Park, with the usual fan-praise and weather-complaints thrown in.
Gian Piero Gasperini is in his usual stressed-out mode, after recent losses to Napoli and Cagliari, and he’ll be desperate to beat Wilfried Nancy’s side.
Whilst preparing for the Celtic match, Gasperini has also been pushing for transfers. He wants attacking additions and Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee is the chief target.
On Wednesday, Gazzetta dello Sport reported Roma and the Red Devils have held initial talks. The forward has given his green light for the move, and it’s now about convincing Manchester United with the formula.
A loan plus purchase obligation, reaching around €35m, is a possible outcome. Ruben Amorim’s side would ideally want a permanent sale. But they have informed intermediaries of an openness towards an initial loan with the obligation to buy.
Today’s TuttoSport explains Roma want to sign the 24-year-old as quickly as possible, as soon as the window opens.
The Friedkin ownership has instructed sporting director Ricky Massara to negotiate the move. This could result in a potential trip to Manchester, straight after after Roma’s game against Celtic. Tuttosport believes the hope from Glasgow down south makes sense.
As part of their January business, Roma are expected to cancel Evan Ferguson’s loan from Brighton. Maybe that’s something Celtic could ask about tonight…