Blow for Man City as Roma president rules out sale of star midfielder

Roma president James Pallotta claims star midfielder Daniele De Rossi will, under no circumstances, be sold in January.

The 29-year-old star has been linked with big spending French side Paris St Germain along with Premier League side Manchester City.

But Pallotta insists De Rossi has a key role to play as the capital club strive to finish in the top three and qualify for the Champions League.

He told Corriere dello Sport: "We have absolutely no intention of selling De Rossi. We have not had any contact from anyone and we have not received any offers. It is just speculation."

De Rossi signed a five-year contract extension at the Stadio Olimpico in February to become the highest paid player in Italian football on an estimated wage of 10million euros per year.

Roma stabilised an inconsistent start to the season to reach sixth place on the back of four straight wins, but Pallotta is clear that a Europa League berth will not suffice.

"We definitely intend to qualify for the Champions League," he added. "If we don't, we will be extremely unhappy."