Roma were close to selling midfielder Radja Nainggolan to China in January, according to TMW.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte admitted back in October that they tried to sign the Belgian international in the summer, but the 29 year old decided to remain at the Stadio Olimpico instead.
However, just six months after signing a new contract, his future at the Italian club was once again in doubt, following controversy surrounding a video he shared of himself smoking and drinking at a New Year’s Party.
Chinese Super League sides were said to be preparing bids for the midfielder in the aftermath of the incident, with the Gazzetta Dello Sport reporting that Guangzhou Evergrande were prepared to offer €50m for the player.
Nainggolan’s move to China never transpired though, with TMW citing “bureaucratic problems” ending the club’s interest. The Chinese government have placed a 100% tax on transfer fees in the country and reports suggested that Guangzhou were seeking to sign the player on a loan deal prior to a permanent move.
No deal was ever finalised, with Nainggolan remaining at Roma. Whether Chelsea will consider another move for the Belgian midfield enforcer next summer, we will have to wait and see.
