Roma’s hopes of landing Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka have been thrown into a corridor of doubt, prompting the Giallorossi to seek other alternatives. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport (via ChiesaDiTotti), the Italian club’s officials have placed a watchful eye on AZ Alkmaar’s Teun Koopmeiners and Borussia Dortmund’s Thomas Delaney to improve the midfield options.
Roma have been touted for a move for Xhaka ever since Jose Mourinho arrived at the helm. The Portuguese manager is reportedly a long-term admirer of the Swiss midfielder and wanted to make him the marquee summer signing. The 28-year-old playmaker also refused to hide his affection for the Special One, admitting he would like to swap European capitals.
Although Arsenal long looked to be willing to green-light the move, Xhaka’s showings at Euro 2020 have seemingly made the Gunners change their mind. The Premier League giants are now keen to tie the ex-Borussia Monchengladbach man down to a new deal, handing Roma’s hopes of securing the deal a massive blow.
Hell-bent on bolstering his midfield options, Mourinho has already compiled a two-man shortlist should his pursuit of Xhaka comes a cropper.
The first name on the list is Koopmeiners, who has gone from strength to strength at Alkmaar in the past two years. The 23-year-old has tallied 30 goals and ten assists in 70 outings across all competitions over the past two seasons.
It is understood the Eredivisie side will negotiate Koopmeiners’ sale for a fee of around €17million. Alkmaar’s asking price represents a minor markdown on Arsenal’s €22m valuation of Xhaka but still enhances the prospect of the Dutchman’s move to the Stadio Olimpico.
Delaney is the second option, though the Denmark international is already 30-year-old and is not as prolific in attack as Koopmeiners. However, he would be a fine addition to Mourinho’s set-up, considering his tactical awareness, tackling ability, and overall defensive skills. Delaney is an experienced top-flight campaigner and could be a real option for Roma.