Chelsea to raid Roma
LONDON: Chelsea are closing on the £52 million (RM284 million) double signing of Edin Dzeko and Emerson Palmieri from Roma.
The clubs held productive talks on Sunday night and further negotiations were planned late yesterday, with Dzeko’s agents travelling to London to finalise personal terms.
Roma recognise that despite the goals Dzeko has scored, the offer from Chelsea is too good to refuse for a player who is 32 in March and one of the club’s highest earners.
Dzeko started against Inter Milan on Sunday but Roma sporting director Monchi has already stated that he is happy to find a replacement.
Talking to reporters he said: “Whatever will be will be. I work every day to have players suitable to replace our players, my job is always to strengthen my club. If Dzeko leaves Roma, we’ll buy another player.”
Those comments are understood to have affirmed Dzeko’s views over a move to London and a deal is edging closer.
Brazilian full-back Palmieri, 23, who has not long recovered from a ligament injury, will come to Stamford Bridge regardless of a Dzeko agreement.
However figures and payment structure plans are being put in place for a £44 million double transfer with a further £8 million being added in bonuses.
Roma need to raise £36.7 million to help them comply with Financial Fair Play.
Dzeko has concerns about playing regularly if he moves to Stamford Bridge and is cup tied for the Champions League but Antonio Conte is keen to protect Alvaro Morata also from a heavy schedule. Daily Mail