Arsenal are said to be interested in signing defender Chris Smalling, who has been out on loan at Roma.
Smalling has impressed since moving to Serie A on loan, and his fine form has put him on Arsenal’s radar.
Roma want to keep the powerful centre-back, but realise that they may have to make it into the Champions League to do so.
The Gunners are now said to be hoping that Roma don’t make it into Europe’s elite competition, as it could make their task of signing Smalling easier.
Although Arsenal reportedly have competition from the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Everton for the £25 million defender’s signature (Metro), Mikel Arteta’s side may fancy their chances of coming out on top.
Smalling is thought to have enjoyed his spell with Roma, but if they do not have Champions League football on offer it could be that he decides to stay in England.
Roma are currently in fifth place in the Serie A standings, three points away from the Champions League places.
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