Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has admitted that his club would make a bid for Daniele De Rossi if he left Roma.
The Italian international’s future at the Stadio Olimpico is in doubt given that he has yet to extend his contract which expires in June 2012.
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has admitted that his club would make a bid for Daniele De Rossi if he left Roma.
The Italian international’s future at the Stadio Olimpico is in doubt given that he has yet to extend his contract which expires in June 2012.
“It’s always difficult to get your hands on a Roman footballer and a Romanista who plays for Roma,” Mancini told the Corriere dello Sport.
“That’s because a Roman is very attached to his origins and his way of life. As a result, I wouldn’t be surprised if he renewed his contract.
“But, if De Rossi is one day available on the market then Manchester City will be ready, as will Real Madrid, Chelsea and all the big clubs.
“He’s a top player, one of those few players who can get into the very best teams in the world. He’s a complete midfielder, with class and experience.”
If De Rossi does commit himself to his hometown club, then Mancini, who spent so many years at Sampdoria, will understand why.
“I turned down a lot of money and sacrificed honours in order to remain at Sampdoria,” the former Italian international added.
“I felt loved in Genoa and I said no to a lot of teams with whom I would have won Scudetti after Scudetti. Daniele could do the same.
“After all, if they give boss Luis Enrique the time he needs in Rome then he could do well with Roma.”
De Rossi, 28, is a successful product of the club’s youth system and is considered as the side’s future captain once Francesco Totti brings his career to an end.
It’s understood that De Rossi and Roma want to prolong their marriage, but there are difficulties in agreeing terms.
Stories in Rome claim the Giallorossi have offered the player a deal worth €4.5m a season, whereas the individual is looking for closer to €7m.
Milan are also understood to be monitoring the World Cup winner’s situation.