Zabaleta on brink of Roma switch

Pablo Zabaleta could be on the brink of a move to Italy with AS Roma, according to reports in both the Italian and English Media.

Il Tempo and the Manchester Evening News are reporting that Roma are close to completing a swoop for the Manchester City full-back for a fee of around €3 million.

The 31-year-old Argentinian joined City from Espanyol eight years ago, and has made 300 appearances for the Premier League club.

But despite his long service for the Citizens, the arrival of Pep Guardiola as new City manager has raised questions over Zabaleta's future at the Etihad, with the Catalan tactician believed to desire a new right-back as he begins to re-shape his squad.

The one stumbling block for any potential deal could be the wages that Zabaleta currently earns at City, as Roma would be highly unlikely to match the players current contract.

But Zabaleta's desire to play first-team football next season could see him willing to accept a reduction in earnings to join the Giallorossi.

Zabaleta has been capped 54 times for Argentina, and his wealth of experience in Spain, England and the Champions League could stand to benefit Roma next season, as manager Luciano Spaletti aims to bolster his squad ahead of a title challenge.

Spaletti took over from French coach Rudi Garcia mid-way through last season, and improved Roma's performances, helping them to a third place Serie A finish and Champions League qualification.