Chelsea vying with Roma for £26.4m rated Italian playmaker

Roma will challenge Chelsea and Manchester United for Atalanta midfielder Bryan Cristante, according to the Corriere Dello Sport.

The Serie A club’s sporting director Monchi is believed to have made contact with the player’s agent Giuseppe Riso, as well as Atalanta about a potential move to the Stadio Olimpico.

Cristante is however on loan from Benfica, and any interested party will have to contact Portuguese club as well about a possible transfer.

The Corriere Dello Sport report that the 22 year old’s asking price could be as much as €30m. The midfielder has been in excellent form this season with 10 goals in 28 games.

Cristante has though stated in recent days he would like a move to the Premier League, making Chelsea and United favourites for the Italian international.

The Blues’ interest in the central midfield player was revealed by Portuguese newspaper Record at the start of the month, with a summer offer being more likely.