Reports in Italy are suggesting that if Chelsea were to offer forward Romelu Lukaku to Roma, the Italian giants would be willing to allow defender Mehdi Benatia to leave in the opposite direction.
Roma are understood to be doing what they can to keep Benatia at the club, but could be tempted by the prospect of Lukaku joining the side.
Lukaku has been an instant success during both of his loan spells, and has admitted that it may be time for him to move on from Chelsea in order to play regularly.
“You know Chelsea: every year they buy a new top striker,” he said.
“I remember me coming into the dressing room last year and seeing Samuel Eto’o and Demba Ba and going: ‘Whoah! What’s happening here?’
“But no problem. Many clubs are interested in me.
“At this stage I have to look to myself. I have to play a good World Cup.
“That’s very interesting for all the players looking for a transfer, and I must be one of them. Chelsea know my point of view.”
Roma can offer the 21-year-old sensation Champions League football having finished second in Serie A last season.
By Ollie Brown