Roma have reportedly made a significant breakthrough in their pursuit of Atletico Madrid forward Giacomo Raspadori.
Giacomo Raspadori gives Roma the green light
Roma added Raspadori to their January shortlist as Gian Piero Gasperini looks to strengthen his attacking ranks mid-season.
Although Evan Ferguson is now impressing at Roma, speculation regarding his future continues to do the rounds.
Now, Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla has reported that Raspadori has said yes to Roma, his decision coming within the last 48 hours.
The Italy international joined Atletico Madrid from Napoli in summer, but he has struggled for game time at the Spanish capital club.
Raspadori joined Los Colchoneros from Napoli in August on a five-year contract, with Italian media reporting a total fee of €26million.
Since arriving in Spain, however, he has struggled to secure starts under Diego Simeone and has made only one league start.
That lack of minutes has prompted Atletico to consider offers in January, with loan and permanent solutions both discussed.
With Raspadori reportedly giving the green light to Roma, the next step is for the Giallorossi to engage in talks with Atletico.
It is thought that Roma would look to sign Raspadori on loan with an option to buy or an obligation tied to certain objectives.
English club West Ham also want Raspadori, according to reports, but it looks as though Roma are now his priority destination.
West Ham are close to losing Niclas Fullkrug to Milan, so they will need reinforcements of their own.
Roma still working on Joshua Zirkzee amid other options
Raspadori could potentially become Gian Piero Gasperini’s first attacking reinforcement, but Roma aren’t looking to stop there.
Gasperini’s priority remains Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee, and a double deal could be on the cards, according to Pedulla.
Zirkzee and Raspadori both have the coach’s approval, as Roma explore multiple routes to strengthen.
The Giallorossi have been linked with a host of other forwards over the past few weeks.
Fiorentina’s Albert Gudmundsson is on Roma’s radar, while Everton striker Beto and Genoa’s Jeff Ekhator are also potential options for Gasperini.
With Roma firmly in Scudetto contention, sitting three points off the Serie A summit, news of their proactive striker search will be music to fans’ ears.
