The Daily Observer London Desk: Reporter- Judith Benjami
Roma outcast Nicolo Zaniolo reportedly changed his mind on joining Bournemouth on deadline day – despite brutally snubbing them last week – but left it too late, with the Cherries rejecting the move after ‘spending enough money’.
Zaniolo had been targeted by a number of clubs this month after making it clear he wanted to leave Jose Mourinho’s side, with the Portuguese manager claiming the player had refused to train at the club.
Despite being linked with Tottenham and AC Milan, the 23-year-old was approached by the Cherries, who sent representatives out to Italy to hold talks over a move.
Roma outcast Nicolo Zaniolo wanted a late Bournemouth move – despite snubbing them last week – but the Cherries reportedly passed on the deal
However, despite offering £26.4million – matching Roma’s asking price – and a contract of around £4.4m-a-year, Zaniolo refused to meet the delegation, infuriating his club.
Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has claimed Zaniolo ended up deciding to join Bournemouth on deadline day – with Roma even arranging a private jet to conclude the deal – before the Cherries passed on the deal.
‘Zaniolo didn’t want to speak the Bournemouth sporting director who came to Roma and had discussions with the agent,’ the report said.
