Mehdi Benatia Seeks Exit from AS Roma Amid Contract Dispute, Eyes Chelsea Move
Moroccan international defender Mehdi Benatia is set to leave AS Roma after failing to reach an agreement on a salary increase with the club’s management. The 27-year-old centre-back, who enjoyed a standout debut season with the Serie A runners-up, is reportedly frustrated with Roma’s handling of his contract and is eager for a fresh start elsewhere.
Benatia’s name has been linked with several top European clubs, with English and German teams expressing interest. While Manchester City was initially considered a likely destination, the club’s recent acquisition of French defender Eliaquim Mangala has cast doubt over any move there.
Instead, Chelsea appears to be the leading contender for Benatia’s signature. The Blues remain keen on the former Marseille player, who is reportedly awaiting a formal approach from manager José Mourinho before entering transfer talks.
According to Italian sports daily Gazzetta dello Sport, Benatia is holding off negotiations until Chelsea makes a concrete offer. Alongside the London club, Juventus and Arsenal are also reportedly monitoring the situation.
Frustrated by what he views as Roma’s failure to uphold their promise of a wage increase, the Moroccan international is determined to secure a move away from the Italian capital, with Chelsea currently the front-runner in the race to sign him.
