José Mourinho has reached out to Sergio Ramos to talk him into joining Roma.
The operation is difficult because of its steep price, but the Giallorossi are in the running thanks to some fiscal advantages. They are competing with PSG, Milan, Sevilla, and Manchester United, Calciomercato.com reports.
The duo spent three seasons together at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning one domestic title. The 35-year-old defender asked the Rossoneri for €15M per year when they inquired three weeks ago. Roma are unlikely to go that high but hope the presence of the Portuguese gaffer could be a factor.
The Italian clubs are helped by a pair of economic measures introduced in recent years. The legislation provides for fewer taxes on foreigners moving their business to Italy. It allows teams to offer higher net sums to players because the gap with the gross amount is less conspicuous than usual. Moreover, Ramos would pay only a flat annual €100k fee on the income generated abroad if he transferred to the Peninsula.
The Spaniard recently announced his departure from the Merengues after 16 years. He cited disagreements over his next contract in his final presser. He is set to command at least €10M wages. The deep-pocketed PSG are currently the frontrunners for his services. Roma are also leaning on the fact that he would be the star of the team if he joined. They would likely part ways from Chris Smalling if they managed to land another veteran defender. The Englishman has drawn interest from Everton.