Roma have confirmed they held talks with Chelsea over the signing of Hakim Ziyech. The 29-year-old was heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge throughout the January transfer window but, after paperworks complications, a move to Paris Saint-Germain collapsed.
As quoted by the Evening Standard, Roma sporting director Tiago Pinto confirmed the Italian side's talks with Ziyech and sympathised his situation. He said: "It's true that we spoke to Ziyech’s agents and Chelsea about him.
"He was one of our targets. I'm sorry for what happened to him, it was difficult for him, but those who say we were in contact with Ziyech's agents were right."
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Ziyech was set to replace Nicolo Zaniolo, who has now joined Galatasaray. Pinto added: "If someone thinks that he left due to the lack of contract offer then they are totally wrong. Nicolo was loved like few players - the moment he refuses to wear the Roma shirt it goes beyond any discussion about a renewal."
PSG emerged as a potential escape route for the Morocco international late into deadline day and there was even an agreement in place which would have seen the winger join Christoph Galtier's side on loan until the end of the season. PSG were said to be willing to sign him, with Ziyech prepared to take a financial hit.
A move fell through; various reports claimed that the wrong paperwork had been filed as well as technology related issues proving an issue too. The French giants submitted an appeal to the LFP - the French football league governing body - but it was rejected.
Speaking to the press after PSG's 3-1 win over Montpellier, Galtier addressed the Parisian's failure to sign the £22million-rated star. As quoted by the Metro, he said: "For various reasons, we could not make it work with the player we targeted.
"I have a quality players, the young people will have their chance to play in this second part of the season. Obviously, in a busy schedule, you have to be careful with injuries and fatigue.
Ziyech will now spend the remainder of the season at Chelsea after moves to both Roma and PSG fell through.
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