RomaPress – The winter transfer market is just days away from beginning and Roma are determined to acquire new reinforcements.
The Giallorossi have several needs, but manager José Mourinho has been most outspoken about the team’s lack of midfield depth. As a result, Roma executive Tiago Pinto is working to secure at least two acquisitions in the coming days.
It’s true that a deal for Ainsley Maitland-Niles is close, however, the two sides still need to reach an agreement regarding personal terms. Mourinho considers the Englishman is a “jolly” and appreciates his ability to play multiple roles on the pitch.
However, the Special One also wants to acquire a “mediano”, a more defensively minded midfielder. Several options are being evaluated, one of which is Hoffenheim’s Florian Grillitsch.
The Austrian international’s contract with the German side expires in June, which allows him to begin talks next month with interested clubs regarding a free summer transfer.
Hoffenheim are open to selling Grillitsch in January to prevent him leaving for zero, however, they’re unwilling (as of now) to lower their €12 million asking price.
The high price tag makes it a very difficult deal for Roma to complete—but it’s an avenue they’re still pursuing.
As learned by RomaPress, the midfielder’s agent, Thomas Böhm, is expected to hold additional talks with the Giallorossi next week to discuss a strategy that could help facilitate a move to the Italian capital.
