Chelsea 'still interested in Brazilian midfielder'
Roma midfielder Emerson has revealed that Chelsea are still interested in taking him to Stamford Bridge but admitted the Blues are not willing to pay as much for his services as they would have last year.
The Brazilian international, who helps provide valuable protection in front of Serie A’s meanest defence, was one of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich’s targets after his purchase of Chelsea last summer but turned down a move.
Roma are faced with having to sell some of their most valuable playing assets to ensure they keep captain and talisman Francesco Totti, and to ease their financial troubles.
Emerson, who called a press conference at Roma’s Trigoria headquarters because of mounting speculation about his future, said: “I have had many offers but I will have to take a decision with the club.
“Chelsea are still interested but it’s not the same figures as last year. The possibility still exists, but it’s not the same financial terms.
“A year ago I had a very high offer from Chelsea but after speaking to the president (Franco Sensi), he decided that it was better to turn it down so I decided to remain at Roma.”
But, he added: “The club has given me permission to listen to several offers. It’s not just my decision, but one for me and the club.”
The fact that he has only one year left on his Roma contract would appear to increase the sense of urgency for the club to sell up so as not to lose him on a free transfer.
Emerson is ranked among the finest holding midfielders in the world alongside Arsenal’s Patrick Vieira and Claude Makelele of Chelsea.
The 28-year-old’s arrival in London would increase competition for places in an already congested Chelsea midfield as Frank Lampard, Scott Parker, Juan Sebastian Veron and Makelele battle for the two central midfield berths.
Emerson has been criticised for not playing well in the important games, including Sunday’s defeat at AC Milan which clinched the title for the Rossoneri.
“It is disappointing to lose the Scudetto,” he said.
“I have always tried to do my best for Roma in the four years that I have been here. I have not forgotten the Roma fans who have supported me at the beginning when I did not have a place in the starting line-up.”
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