AS Roma reportedly want €20 million from suitors for Jordan Veretout, with Newcastle United among those keeping tabs on the French midfielder.
According to Calciomercato, Newcastle United or other Premier League clubs interested in Jordan Veretout will have to pay €20 million for the midfielder if they seek to sign the 29-year-old Frenchman. AS Roma have placed the definitive price tag on their star as they anticipate a summer departure.
Jordan Veretout has become a reliable presence in Jose Mourinho’s plans at AS Roma. The midfielder has made 37 appearances across all competitions, becoming a key component of the Italian side this term. However, his future is far from secure after the January arrival of Sergio Oliveira from FC Porto.
The Portuguese midfielder is a like-for-like alternative to Veretout, and since joining Roma on loan in January, he has become a regular under Mourinho. There are whispers around that Roma would make his move permanent in the summer for €12 million.
This decision could leave Veretout open to leaving the Italian giants for a new venture. With significant interest coming from Premier League clubs, the 29-year-old French midfielder could decide to return to England, where he previously had a stint with Aston Villa.
Newcastle United are among the teams showing strong interest in Veretout, with the Magpies reportedly preparing an offer in January. However, due to uncertainties in the position, Roma supposedly pegged back any possible enquiries for the French midfielder.
But the Giallorossi could be open to offers for the midfielder if their €20 million demands are met. Mourinho has also urged his club to strengthen the midfield position irrespective of Oliveira’s permanent arrival. Hence Roma retain an interest in Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka, who could be available in the summer.
It might be the case of using the funds generated by Veretout and reinvesting them to sign Xhaka. In any case, Newcastle could look to bring the experienced midfielder to St. James’ Park in the summer and strengthen their squad for the next season, where they are at least expected to become contenders for a European place.
It remains to be seen if the Magpies are willing to pay up the €20 million demanded in Veretout’s case. Newcastle certainly have the funds to invest, although, considering the age and long-term profile of the 29-year-old Frenchman, they might look for alternatives in the summer before deciding on pursuing the Roma man.
