Serie A: Roma to lock down Zaniolo

Roma sporting director Monchi confirmed on Thursday that renewing Nicolò Zaniolo’s contract was a priority, and Spanish daily Sport claims it is because his performances have ‘alerted the attentions’ of Madrid.

Los Blancos have gone from signing ‘Galacticos’ to the world’s best young talent in recent years, as seen by the likes of Marco Asensio, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo moving to the Santiago Bernabeu.

The 19-year-old debuted for the Giallorossi against Los Blancos in the Champions League and has since broken through, scoring his first goal - a lob that drew comparisons with Francesco Totti - on Boxing Day.

Gazzetta dello Sport added the Lupi will offer the midfielder a one-year extension, which takes him through to 2024, worth €1m a season plus bonuses.