Roma coach Eusebio Di Francesco has stressed that Edin Dzeko is “important” as speculation continues to link the striker with a move to Chelsea.
Di Francesco, speaking after his side’s draw with Inter Milan on Sunday, also said midfielder Radja Nainggolan would be staying put despite links with a move to the Chinese Super League.
“Dzeko is an important player, but if you want to talk about the transfer market then you need to talk to the club,” the coach told Mediaset, falling short of ruling out a sale.
“Edin’s a Roma player and I will field any of the players I have at my disposal.”
Nainggolan has been tipped to make a lucrative move to Guangzhou Evergrande, but Di Francesco was for more insistent he would not leave, saying: “Nainggolan’s not going anywhere — it’s obvious he’s staying with us.
“You know why he was dropped [for the Atalanta game, after breaking team rules] and I’m happy with him now — he satisfied me today. He could have been a bit more incisive, but he’s a great footballer.”
Di Francesco will hope to have both available for his side’s forthcoming double-header against Sampdoria.
They travel to Genoa on Wednesday for a rearranged fixture before hosting the same opponents on Sunday.
Victory in midweek could take them up to third although city rivals Lazio, who currently occupy that position, are also in action on Wednesday.
Ben Gladwell reports on Serie A, the Italian national team and the Bundesliga for ESPN FC, UEFA and the Press Association. @UEFAcomBenG.