Roma midfielder refuses to rule out Chelsea move amidst interest

Seria A top performer Radja Nainggolan has confirmed Antonio Conte contacted him about a possible move to Chelsea last summer, Football Italia reports.

Nainggolan climbed Conte’s transfer wish list after Euro 2016 but a deal didn’t materialise. The Belgian ended up extending his contract with Roma to 2020 in October but has refused to rule out a possible move to the Premier League leaders after the end of the season.

The Belgian international said: “I watch [the Premier League] a lot. A lot of my teammates play there. It is the best league in the world.

“We have to make choices in life. I am having a good season. When the window opens we will talk about it again. Yes, I talked to [Conte]. They were really interested and wanted me over there. That’s all I can say.”

Nainggolan is considered a complete midfielder. He is a versatile player who can thrive both in offensive and defensive roles. He possesses excellent technique, good vision and passing, and the stamina and aggression to play in a box-to-box role if needed. He also brags plenty of creativity which has seen him being utilised as a playmaker.

Nainggolan has been impressive for Roma this season, having scored nine goals in 29 appearances so far. It is believed his contract with Roma contains a £40 million release clause.