Roma joined AC Milan in the race to get Manchester United defender Eric Bailly on loan. Footmarket reports.
The Ivorian’s future has been a regular topic of speculation in recent weeks, and he is still linked to a winter retirement.
Earlier on Monday, it was revealed that Milan are still interested in the center back, and talks with the Red Devils continue.
It is now reported that the Rossoneri are reluctant to pay his £ 80,000 per week wages in full, which ‘currently hampers’ the loan transaction.
Amid this, Roma are believed to have taken part in the race to sign Bailly, although talks are not at an advanced stage at the moment.
Our view:
Bailly was persuaded to sign a new long-term deal in April last year after receiving assurances of regular playing time in the future.
However, his fortunes did not improve this campaign. He played less than 500 minutes for the Red Devils in all competitions.
The defender is currently away on international service, but it is clear that he is far below the rankings under manager Ralf Rangnick.
Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof were elected above him, and there is also competition from Phil Jones.
With Jones’ injury problems in recent years, it does not seem ideal to lend Bailly, but the hierarchy has not ruled out the possibility.
Milan are obviously pushing to sign him amid injuries to Simon Kjaer and Fikayo Tomori, but Jose Mourinho and Roma could hamper their plans.
Bailly has had an excellent relationship with Mourinho since he was United manager, praising him once as the ‘best driver in the world‘.
Despite frequent injuries, the 27-year-old has enjoyed his best game under Mourinho, and could be tempted by a reunion if there is a serious interest.
Statistics from Transfermarkt.com
