Serie A giants AS Roma will return with an improved offer as they look to strike a deal with Chelsea for Jamie Gittens.
Chelsea rejected AS Roma’s initial offer for Jamie Gittens, forcing the Italian club to rethink their approach. According to a report from Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma had first tested the Blues’ resolve with a loan proposal.
They were ready to pay a loan fee of €3 million, and the deal included a €40 million option to buy. However, those terms were turned down by the London club, and the Italian giants are now preparing to return with an improved proposal before the transfer window closes.
The pursuit addresses a clear problem on the left wing. Bryan Zaragoza has returned to Bayern Munich after his loan ended, and Stephan El Shaarawy has also departed, leaving the capital club without a recognised specialist in that position.
Gittens, at 22 years old, is viewed as a player capable of providing the pace and directness Roma currently lack on that side of the pitch. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini has identified him as a top target, as they head into a difficult season with multiple commitments. The fact that they have Champions League football to offer will help them lure the young winger.
Chelsea could consider a move for Gittens
Roma sense an opening as Xabi Alonso’s tactical approach at Chelsea may reduce Gittens’ playing time. The Spanish manager doesn’t rely heavily on wingers, creating an opportunity for the Italian club.
Chelsea, however, have little reason to rush into a deal. The Blues signed Gittens from Borussia Dortmund last summer for €65 million after an impressive spell in Germany, but his first season in London failed to produce the impact expected from such a significant investment.
The winger made 27 appearances and recorded six goal contributions while playing just over 1,000 minutes. His campaign was also disrupted by a hamstring injury, limiting his ability to establish himself as a regular starter.
The initial proposal has failed, but Roma are not giving up. Their next offer will need to be substantially more attractive if they are to persuade Chelsea to seriously consider allowing the €65 million signing to leave.
With the transfer window closing on September 1, the coming days will determine whether Gittens gets the opportunity to restart his career in Serie A or he remains at Stamford Bridge.