JoséMourinho faces abig task ahead of his first season in charge of AS Roma in his return to Serie A. The upcoming weeks could see the Italian side landing its first players during Mourinho’s era, and a big-name striker such as Edinson Cavani might be one of them, according to reports.
The Special One is about to begin one of the most challenging jobs in his career after taking the reigns of several European giants. Roma finished seventh in the 2020/21 Serie A campaign and were destroyed by Manchester United in the Europa League semifinals.
Therefore, it seemedinevitable that the squad needed changes. Now that Mourinho is on board, the next step for the I Giallorossi is to strengthen its roster to keep up with the likes of Inter, Milan, and Juventus. Cavani is believed to be a key target for the Portuguese coach, whiletwo more players are close to joining the team.
Edinson Cavani (Manchester United)
The 34-year-old striker has been linked with a possible move to AS Roma recently. Edinson Cavani has impressed in his first year at Manchester United, where he arrived for free after finishing a seven-year spell with PSG. The Uruguayan star has found the net 17 times in 39 games last season, which earned him a contract extension atOld Trafford. However, Mourinho is understood to be interested in landing him for his new adventure at Roma, and according to the Daily Star, the club hasagreed on terms with Cavani.
The striker’s contract with the Red Devils expires next year, which is why the Italian team would have to reach an agreement with Manchester United to complete the deal.
Granit Xhaka (Arsenal)
The Switzerland international could be parting ways with Arsenal soon after five years. Granit Xhaka, currently taking part in the Euro 2020, is apparently close to joining Mourinho’s AS Roma. Journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that Xhaka is pushing to arrive at the Stadio Olimpico and that the deal between the clubs is at its final stages.
The 28-year-old center midfield could seek a new challenge after a long time in North London, where he has been through good and bad moments. His arrival to Roma would provide a huge boost to Mourinho’s squad, as he not onlyrules in the middle of the park but hasleadership skills as well.
Rui Patricio (Wolves)
Another Premier League player that would join Mourinho’s team, Rui Patricio has reportedly agreed to terms with AS Roma, who are finalizing the deal with Wolverhampton, according to Fabrizio Romano. With Pau López possibly leaving the club, the Italians would be securing a safe replacement.
The 33-year-old has impressed during his stint in the English top-flight and has proven to be a dependable option between the sticks. This would be an important challenge for him at this stage of his careerwhen Roma is looking forward to bouncingback.