Serie A side AS Roma have denied completing a deal with Premier League side Chelsea for the transfer of Edin Dzeko, as per reports. There were lot of reports that both sides had reached an agreement over the deal but the Sporting Director Monchi has rubbished the claims.

Monchi admitted that Chelsea submitted a bid, saying they listen to all offers like every other club in the world. However, it was clear that they wanted more money than what they got from the Blues. “At this moment, I don’t like the offers that we have received, so we do not take them into consideration,” Monchi said.

Coach Antonio Conte is keen on another striker to ease the burden on first choice Alvaro Morata. Chelsea have targeted West Ham’s Andy Carroll and Burnley’s Ashley Barnes, as well as other strikers but the current focus is on Dzeko, a former Manchester City pointman. Dzeko was named in the starting line-up in Roma’s Serie A game against Sampdoria. This also meant the move was far from a close. The 31-year old reportedly wants around £90,000 weekly and a deal that assures his future until the summer of 2021, meaning at least a three and a half year deal.

Chelsea who are desperate for his services would likely fork out £26 million to get Roma to budge. They are expected to pay £22 million also for Emerson Palmieri in a double player deal aside add-ons. The deals for both players are expected to be completed before the end of the winter window to help Chelsea through the second half of the season. Roma are also reported to be seeking a replacement for the players who are set to leave. They are set to reject moves for highly sought after player Radja Nainggolan this January and even in the summer.