Saudi Pro League titans Al-Hilal are ready to hijack Marco Verratti’s rumored move to Roma after piecing together a substantial offer to lure him away from Paris Saint-Germain. Italian journalist Rudy Galetti claims the Saudis are stepping up their pursuit of the 30-year-old, who could be counting his final days at the Parc des Princes.
Despite leading PSG to a record-breaking 11th Ligue 1 title, manager Christophe Galtier was relieved of his duties shortly after the completion of the 2022/23 campaign. His departure, coupled with the imminent exits of Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos, seems to have opened a floodgate in Paris as Les Parisiens enter a transitional period.
As one of the club’s most loyal servants, Verratti is under contract until 2026. But his future is also in doubt. While seeking a new permanent boss, the French heavyweights are preparing for a mass clearout following another awful Champions League campaign. And all but Kylian Mbappe are at risk, including the Italy international.
Roma had thought about making a move to bring Verratti on loan. Jose Mourinho is desperate to address the shortage of numbers in the engine room. But after capturing the signature of Houssem Aouar, their interest has cooled somewhat. The Giallorossi may come to regret that decision as they now face a formidable adversary in their effort to sign the diminutive midfielder.
Not only do Al-Hilal boast significantly superior financial records, but they are ready to negotiate an outright purchase with PSG. Acquiring a player of Verratti’s reputation would be a statement of intent for Roma following a Europa League heartache last season. However, there’s no way they can compete with the wealthy Saudi outfit.
Verratti is currently away on international duty with Italy. Yet, after helping his country secure a third-place finish in the UEFA Nations League, he’s ready to discuss his future. So unless Roma come up with a plan to make up for a lack of funds, they may have to reconcile with losing the household midfielder to the Middle East club.
 |
Follow us on Google News for more updates on Serie A and Italian football |