According to Calciomercato, Roma have now agreed a new contract with Nicolo Zaniolo amid interest from Tottenham and Arsenal.
Arsenal & Tottenham dealt blow in Nicolo Zaniolo race
Well, it was a separate story from Calciomercato which claimed that Spurs saw a bid worth £46m rejected for the Italy international before the September 1st deadline.
Again, it was Calciomercato who revealed that Arsenal are interested in Zaniolo.
Now, however, the north Londoners have suffered a setback.
The Italian news outlet believe Roma have now agreed a contract extension for Zaniolo, with his current terms set to expire in 2024.
Claudio Vigorelli – who represents the Roma No.22 – met with José Mourinho’s side last week, and has negotiated a new deal for his client which is said to be worth €5m (£4m) in total.
It represents more good news for Zaniolo, who has only recently shrugged off a shoulder injury and returned to action for Roma.
Interest in the 23-year-old came after he scored eight goals and provided nine assists last season, helping Roma win the inaugural UEFA Conference League.
It was Zaniolo who scored the only goal of the game as Roma recorded a 1-0 win over Feyenoord in the final.
Arsenal & Tottenham have some hope
Interestingly, Calciomercato suggest a release clause could be written into Zaniolo’s new contract.
It is said that a figure between €50m and €60m (£44m – £52m) may be inserted into the agreement, which – if it does happen – would provide Mikel Arteta and Antonio Conte with some hope.
With a release clause active, Spurs and the Gunners will not have to wrestle with Roma at the negotiating table, and can simply offer the amount required to trigger the clause if Zaniolo continues to impress.
Keep an eye on this saga going into 2023, as we expect Arsenal and Tottenham to maintain their interest.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
