[Jager]

Philippe Mexes held extensive talks with the Giallorossi and could complete his switch on Monday, where Matteo Ferrari’d join him.


The defender has been a long-term transfer target for Roma, although the last time he was in negotiations with the club it was also with Coach Fabio Capello.


Despite the change in management with the arrival of Parma’s Cesare Prandelli, Mexes (pictured) reaffirmed that he is intent on joining the Stadio Olimpico outfit.


The only stumbling block now is his current club Auxerre, who have set a price-tag of approximately £5.6m, whereas Roma are only prepared to pay around £3.5m.


Mexes is embroiled in a legal battle over his contract with the French side, as he maintains that he can buy his way out for just over £3m.


If the Giallorossi make a formal offer to Auxerre of somewhere in-between the two figures, then the deal could be completed as early as Monday.


Another defensive reinforcement is likely to be Matteo Ferrari, who is currently preparing for Euro 2004.


“I would be happy and proud to continue working with Prandelli,” revealed the Parma defender.

“I know that something is happening behind the scenes between my club and Roma, while Antonio Cassano has given me advice on where to buy a house in the Capital.”

If they get both of these players, I will definitely be surprised.