Roma have admitted defeat in their bid to stop Edin Dzeko signing for Inter this summer, according to Corriere dello Sport.
The Giallorossi are proving extremely difficult to negotiate with as sporting director Gianluca Petrachi continues to demand €20 million for the striker.
Dzeko recently confirmed he had no interest of signing a new deal in the capital, though, giving Petrachi no option but to soften his bargaining stance.
Inter moved closer to Roma’s asking price on Monday when submitting an improved bid for Dzeko, whose arrival in Milan appears to be a matter of time.
Dzeko’s contract expires next summer and Roma are aware they cannot afford to lose their star striker on a free transfer.
The fact the club does not have a replacement for the Bosnian lined up yet, though, puts Petrachi in a very difficult position.
“Dzeko gave his word to Inter in March and Inter would happily include Mauro Icardi in a deal, but Wanda Nara has agreed personal terms with Juventus and Maurito wants a club that plays in the Champions League,” Corriere reported this morning.
“Aurelio De Laurentiis is hopeful of bringing Icardi to Napoli and Juventus have not given up either. Roma remain on the side-lines, well aware they have very little chance.”
Dzeko scored Roma’s opening goal yesterday as Paulo Fonseca’s side beat Perugia 3-1 in their latest preseason friendly.
