Roma issue hands off warning over Manchester City 'target' Daniele De Rossi

The Italian midfielder is admired by Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini

PA

Tuesday 18 December 2012

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Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi will not be sold in January under any circumstances, according to club president James Pallotta.

The future of the 29-year-old has been the subject of intense speculation ahead of the January transfer window, with big spending French club Paris St Germain and Barclays Premier League champions Manchester City rumoured to be among the interested parties.

The Giallorossi vice-captain has endured an unsettled season under new Roma boss Zdenek Zeman, struggling to fit into a 4-3-3 formation and missing a significant number of Serie A games through suspension and injury.

But Pallotta insists De Rossi has a key role to play as the capital club strive to finish in the top three and qualify for the Champions League.

He told Corriere dello Sport: "We have absolutely no intention of selling De Rossi. We have not had any contact from anyone and we have not received any offers. It is just speculation."

De Rossi signed a five-year contract extension at the Stadio Olimpico in February to become the highest paid player in Italian football on an estimated wage of 10million euros per year.

Roma stabilised an inconsistent start to the season to reach sixth place on the back of four straight wins, but Pallotta is clear that a Europa League berth will not suffice.

"We definitely intend to qualify for the Champions League," he added. "If we don't, we will be extremely unhappy."

PA

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