NAPLES, ITALY - APRIL 18: Bryan Cristante of AS Roma during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 18, 2022 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Roma Working to Keep Cristante amid Transfer Chatter

Bryan Cristante has some important suitors and is clamoring to get an extension, but Roma plan for him to be part of the squad next season. The midfielder has earned the trust of José Mourinho, who considers him untouchable. The parties will re-open the negotiation on his personal terms at the end of the season, Corriere dello Sport informs.

The Italian international is under contract until 2024. He makes €1.8M per year and asked for a raise. Juventus, Milan, and Sevilla are monitoring the situation ahead of a possible summer pursuit. On the other hand, the Giallorossi are confident they will eventually come to terms with him. He has started almost every match so far.

While Roma have strong chances of retaining Cristante, Sergio Oliveira needs to finish the season on a high note to be bought out. He will have a few more opportunities down the stretch since Henrikh Mkhitaryan will miss time with a thigh strain.

The Giallorossi are not fully sold yet on activating their €13M option. They are looking to get a discount, at least €5M, or pay it in multi-year installments. They will try to leverage his wish and the fact that Porto would have to find another buyer if they sent him back in their favor. The midfielder wants to stay in the Italian Capital. He is even willing to give up the bonuses included in his contract to facilitate the deal, Calciomercato informs. He has logged 13 appearances since joining in January, tallying 3 goals and 2 assists.