AS Roma Record €278.5m In Debt – Mkhitaryan Deal In Jeopardy

Arsenal’s window to get Henrikh Mkhitaryan off their books might have closed out sooner than expected.

With the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, Italy have taken the worst of hits both health-wise and financially. It has affected every business, football clubs being no different.

Reports claim that AS Roma’s debt has soared up to €278.5 million. The Friedkin Group is interested in buying the club out but president, James Pallotta refuses to lower his €700 million asking price. This has definitely left the Giallorossi in a difficult spot going into the summer.

Signing new players to remain competitive is a big ask as Roma prepares to sell their best assets to raise funds. They are going to entertain offers for their two best young players – Nicolo Zaniolo and Lorenzo Pellegrini. Liverpool have had an eye on Zaniolo for quite some time but were put off by his asking price. PSG are interested in the midfield ace, Pellegrini.

Both of these players could bring in a significant amount of cash which they will be unable to reinvest in players like Mkhitaryan. The Armenian has enjoyed a stellar loan spell at the Stadio Olimpico and wants to remain there permanently. Unfortunately, his contract might be far too big for Roma to take on which is why they expressed hesitation early on.

Arsenal were reportedly told to increase his loan deal by one more season or to pay the remainder of his wages even after a sale. The Gunners refused in anticipation of at least €10 million in transfer fees. They might have to give up that hope if they plan on getting anything out of the 31-year-old. His contract is due to run out in 2021.