Roma director Ricky Massara says that centre back Kostas Manolas will remain at the Serie A club for a “long time.”
The Greek international has been mentioned as a possible summer target for both Inter Milan and Arsenal but speaking to TV station Mediaset Premium (translated by Football-Italia.net), Massara said that any move away from the Stadio Olimpico is unlikely for the 25 year old:
“We are happy if other clubs admire Manolas, as it means Roma have a very strong defender. He will stay with us for a long time.”
Manolas was reportedly the subject of a €40million bid in the summer from the Gunners before they landed Valencia’s Shkodran Mustafi instead for roughly the same amount.
The defender has been a regular under manager Luciano Spalletti, playing 30 games in all competitions for the Italian side this campaign. Roma have the second best defensive record behind league leaders Juventus, and his age and profile make him a prime target for top European clubs looking to improve their backline.
After renewing Per Mertesacker’s contract in January, the Gunners look to have four recognised first team centre backs already lined up for next season which meant any move for Manolas always looked unlikely.
