Leeds target Zaniolo posts letter, pledges allegiance to Roma after transfer window

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It was a bizarre saga involving Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo in the January window. Leeds were one of the clubs trying to sign Zaniolo last month – and since the window stories have emerged, but now, Zaniolo has posted a letter to fans.

Let’s start, from the start. The 23-year-old and Roma were in talks over a new deal. His current contract ends in June 2024. But, talks broke down. Roma were keen to sell him. They wanted a permanent sale, or a loan with an obligation.

CM claim Leeds were among a number of clubs that made a bid for the £31m-rated Zaniolo. But Leeds’ bid, like others, was a loan-to-buy bid. Not to Roma’s liking. Bournemouth made a permanent offer, which Zaniolo initially rejected.

Then, with time running out in the window and the thought that he may have to stay – he u-turned on his decision. He wanted to join Bournemouth. But, the Cherries had since spent the cash they offered for Zaniolo, and rejected a move.

So, Zaniolo is stuck at Roma. Il Messaggero say that Zaniolo has been followed by Roma fans and there are supposedly death threats – after refusing to train or play. His family are considering legal action against Roma. But now, a letter.

Leeds wanted Zaniolo but now he has posted a letter to Roma fans

Zaniolo, via Sky in Italy, has sent a message to Roma fans after the debacle. He says: “Many things have been said and written about me in recent weeks and many are not true. I arrived in Rome as an unknown and Rome welcomed me.

“In recent months, I went through a delicate period, in which it was difficult to understand what my professional future would be . However, I have always worked hard on the pitch and in training with the utmost professionalism.

“For the first time I have been afraid, for myself, for my family. I felt abandoned. This has never happened to me. I was scared. The future is in our hands: I place myself at the complete disposal of the Roma family. Signed, Nicolò Zaniolo.”

A bizarre turn of events. Having asked to leave, tried to engineer a move, refused to play, Roma remaining stubborn in the type of transfer, death threats, a potential legal case and now staying at Roma – Zaniolo posts this letter.