Tottenham may see Roma move from Toby Alderweireld to Dejan Lovren.
According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Roma have identified Liverpool’s Dejan Lovren as a key target if they can’t sign Tottenham Hotspur’s Toby Alderweireld.
New boss Paulo Fonseca has work to do this summer, and re-tooling his centre back options has been a major priority ahead of the new Serie A season.
Atalanta starlet Gianluca Mancini has arrived, but they are also keen to find an experienced, quality leader at the back to play alongside the young Italian.
With that in mind, Roma have been pursuing Tottenham ace Alderweireld, but having failed to activate his £25million release clause last week – a clause which has now expired – that deal looks unlikely.
Roma are now turning their attentions elsewhere and identifying alternative targets, with Liverpool’s Lovren now believed to be on their wish list.
It’s claimed that the two sides have a good relationship after Liverpool raided Roma for Alisson and Mohamed Salah in recent years, and that may just help Roma sign Lovren.
The Croatian had a tricky season due to injuries, and may now find himself behind Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez in the pecking order, and a considerable bid – around €20million (£18million) may tempt Jurgen Klopp into selling him and rolling with new boy Sepp van den Berg as fourth choice.
Lovren joined Liverpool from Southampton five years ago, and has had his fair share of ups and downs. At 30, he can’t spend another season as a bit-part player, and a move to play a key role at Roma may be hugely appealing.
Such a move would have a big impact on Spurs, as another suitor for Alderweireld would fall by the wayside. He may only have one year left on his deal, but Alderweireld would remain a key player this season, and it would at least give Spurs some hope of extending his deal down the line.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
