Chelsea track Italy star De Rossi as turmoil tests his Roma commitment

17 September 2009 11:12
Carlo Ancelotti is keeping track of Daniele De Rossi amid reports that the Italy midfielder is growing increasingly concerned by Roma's problems. Chelsea had a bid for the 26-year-old rejected in the summer and, after also failing to land AC Milan's Andrea Pirlo, Ancelotti may be keen to maintain contact with De Rossi. The Blues are hampered by a ban on transfer activity until January 2011, but hope to get a lighter punishment on appeal. Real Madrid also moved for De Rossi in the summer, but his financially struggling employers rejected all bids and were backed by the hometown hero indicating that he would be happy to stay at the Olympic Stadium for life. However, his mood is said to have changed amid further turmoil in the Italian capital. A proposed takeover that would have eased Roma's debts never materialised and popular head coach Luicano Spalletti resigned at the start of this month after defeats in the opening two Serie A matches of the season. Roma failed to adequately replace Alberto Aquilani, who was sold to Liverpool for £20million, and De Rossi is said to be wondering if it also now time to leave. His club have apparently rejected bids above £30m in the past, but may have to reconsider their position if he softens his commitment to the cause.

Source: Daily_Mail