Roma have made contact with Barcelona in an ambitious attempt to lure midfielder Javier Mascherano to the Stadio Olimpico.
The Argentine veteran is reportedly keen on a change of scenery following five seasons at the Camp Nou, during which time he has won La Liga three times in addition to two Champions League titles.
The Gazzetta Dello Sport claims that it would take a fee of €15 million for Barca to part with the combative midfielder, while the Giallorossi would offer an annual salary of €3.5 million plus bonuses.
The Rome-based outfit value Mascherano’s versatility which would allow them to field him as a defensive midfielder or a centre-back.
This could pave the way for Alessio Romagnoli’s departure from the club, as the defender has been heavily linked with a move to AC Milan.
However, a potential stumbling block exists in the form of the transfer embargo placed upon Barcelona which prevents any players from joining or leaving the Blaugrana until January 2016.
Coach Luis Enrique is adamant that the Catalan club will hold onto all of their first team players until the embargo expires.