Bournemouth join race to sign Roma forward Nicolo Zaniolo?

Bournemouth have reportedly registered an interest in signing Roma forward Nicolo Zaniolo.

Over the weekend, Jose Mourinho confirmed that the Italy international had requested an exit from Stadio Olimpico during the January transfer window.

However, the Portuguese added that he expected the 23-year-old to see out the season with his current club due to a lack of attractive bids.

Roma would allegedly prefer to complete a straight sale for a fee in excess of £35m if they are to agree to a transfer, rather than a loan with an option to buy in the summer that several teams are said to be offering.

Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have all been linked with Zaniolo over the coming weeks, while Serie A champions AC Milan have also been credited with an interest.

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Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has claimed that personal terms have already been discussed with Milan, a rival to Roma when it comes to Champions League qualification.

Nevertheless, according to Sky Sport Italia, Bournemouth have now entered the race to secure a deal for the versatile attacker.

The report says that the Cherries are willing to pay €30m (£26.4m) plus a number of add-ons and with the addition of a sell-on clause.

Although the offer may prove to be to Roma's liking, Bournemouth are expected to remain as outsiders for Zaniolo giving their current status in the Premier League.

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Gary O'Neil's side occupy 18th spot and are winless in their last five outings in the top flight, far away from the European football in the present and future which is on offer elsewhere.

The Daily Mail suggests that Bournemouth are moving for Zaniolo due to concerns over the injury history of Villarreal's Nicolas Jackson.

Zaniolo has also had to deal with his own fitness issues during his time at Roma having sustained two serious knee injuries since the beginning of 2020.

Nevertheless, he has proven his fitness over the past 18 months, making a total of 59 appearances in all competitions, contributing 10 goals and 12 assists.