Roma have renewed hope they can bring Marcos Leonardo in this summer, as Santos have reportedly approached Alexis Sanchez.
The Giallorossi had agreed to reach the asking price for the striker, which was set at €10m plus another €8m in add-on payments.
However, they then refused to part with him because they were no longer in a position to sign a replacement, insisting they would have to wait until January to even consider a sale.
Marcos Leonardo is frustrated and has been refusing to train with the squad for several days in protest.
Roma also sent out agent Rafaela Pimenta to help mediate the situation with Santos and there might finally be a breakthrough.
According to Calciomercato.com, Santos have approached Alexis Sanchez, who is a free agent after his contract with Olympique Marseille was allowed to run down.
The 34-year-old Chile international spent some of his career in Serie A with Udinese and then Inter before moving to Marseille in 2022.
If Santos are able to bring him in as a replacement even after the transfer window has shut, then they could be more willing to release Marcos Leonardo for Roma.