According to reports from Calcio Mercato, the latest ‘Football Leak’ has revealed Roma own only half the playing rights of Arsenal & Chelsea transfer target Kostas Manolas.
The 24-year-old is rated as one of the top centre-backs in Serie A and has been in good form for Giallorossi this season, averaging 2 tackles, 1.7 interceptions, 4.5 clearances and 2.8 aerial duels per match.
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The Greek international was mooted as a prime transfer target for Chelsea last month, whilst recent reports from Football Insider have revealed Arsenal are also set to revive their interest – having come close to signing the £30million-rated defender in summer 2013.
But according to Calcio Mercato, who cite the latest reports from Football Leaks, Roma only actually own half of Manolas’ playing rights, meaning half of any transfer fee they receive this summer will go to former club Olympiacos.
Co-ownership agreements are common in Italian football but this one particularly spells trouble for Arsenal and Chelsea. Roma will be able to buy out the centre-back’s full contract for €6.5million once the coming transfer window closes, making summer 2017 a far better time to sell because they’ll receive the entirety of any transfer fee.
Although Manolas will probably remain in Arsenal and Chelsea’s transfer thoughts, the latest leak suggests a move away from the Stadio Olimpico this summer is incredibly unlikely.