Wojciech Szczesny to Roma: Italian side closing in on season-long loan for Arsenal goalkeeper after holding talks

Szczesny has fallen further down pecking order after Cech's arrival

Roma have begun negotiations with Arsenal over the season-long loan move of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, according to reports.

Italian newspaper Il Tempo have reported that the two teams are in direct talks to finalise the move.

Petr Cech's £11m arrival from Chelsea this summer has pushed the Polish goalkeeper even further down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium.

The 25-year-old Szczesny lost his place as the Gunners' No 1 to David Ospina last season, after being caught smoking in the showers after an error-ridden performance against Southampton on New Year's Day.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said he would be happy to keep both Szczesny and Ospina earlier this month despite Cech's arrival, but did add: "We have to see if they're happy as well because it's important everyone is committed. We'll see what happens."

Szczesny did, however, start for Arsenal in their FA Cup final triumph over Aston Villa back in May. He had started all of the club's FA Cup games last term.