Roma manager Luciano Spalletti has revealed that he wants to keep rumoured Liverpool target Leandro Paredes at the club. The Argentinian spent last season on loan at Serie A side Empoli, alongside Anfield bound midfielder Piotr Zielinski, and had an impressive season.
Speaking to newspaper Gazzetta Dello Sport in a wide ranging interview (translation via Football-Italia.net), Spalletti revealed that Paredes will become an important player in his midfield next season, in a defensive role:
“[Leandro] Paredes could become an important pawn to be used in front of the defence.”
The 21 year old was a regular for Empoli last season with two goals and one assist in 33 league appearances. It had been reported that the Argentine could be sold to free up funds for other purchases this summer, which led to links to a move to Merseyside. Spalletti’s arrival in January as manager replacing Rudi Garcia means the midfielder will have a chance to impress in preseason after his return to Roma after his loan spell.
