Reports from Italy claim Roma asked Barcelona about a loan move for Thomas Vermaelen when in Catalonia for the Joan Gamper Trophy.
Mundo Deportivo cite a story published by the Corriere Dello Sport which says the Belgium international is on Roma’s agenda after losing Alessio Romagnoli, who is to join Milan.
Vermaelen’s ability to play left-back further attracts him to the capital club, it’s believed, as that is also an area in which they are keen to strengthen.
Sport, however, add that Luis Enrique doesn’t want to lose Vermaelen, despite the injury-hit season the former Arsenal defender endured in his first year at Barca.
And with that in mind, the Catalan publication insists Barca won’t negotiate with Roma for the player.
