Following the arrival of Noni Madueke, Hakim Ziyech appeared to be on his way out of Chelsea during the January transfer window.
Hakim Ziyech of Chelsea reacts after a missed opportunity during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Chelsea FC on January 21, 2023 at Anfield.
Roma have confirmed that they have held talks with Chelsea about signing Hakim Ziyech. The 29-year-old was heavily linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge throughout the January transfer window, but a deal to Paris Saint-Germain fell through due to paperwork issues.
According to the Evening Standard, Roma sporting director Tiago Pinto confirmed the Italian club’s discussions with Ziyech and expressed sympathy for his situation.
“It’s true that we spoke to Ziyech’s agents and Chelsea about him,” he said.
He was one of our objectives. I’m sorry for what happened to him; it must have been difficult for him, but those who claim we communicated with Ziyech’s agents were correct.”
Ziyech was supposed to take over for Nicolo Zaniolo, who has since joined Galatasaray.
Report: Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech told to leave Stamford Bridge
“If anyone thinks he left because there was no contract offer, they are completely wrong,” Pinto added. Nicolo was loved like few players – the moment he refuses to wear the Roma shirt, any discussion of a renewal is over.”
Late into deadline day, PSG emerged as a potential escape route for the Morocco international, and an agreement was even in place for the winger to join Christoph Galtier’s side on loan until the end of the season.
The season. PSG was said to be interested in signing him, with Ziyech willing to take a financial hit.
A move failed; various reports claimed that incorrect paperwork was filed, as well as technology-related issues. The French giants filed an appeal with the LFP, the French football league’s governing body, but it was denied.
Galtier addressed the press after PSG’s 3-1 win over Montpellier. According to the Metro, he said:
“We were unable to make it work with the player we wanted for a variety of reasons.
“I have a lot of quality players, and the young players will get a chance to play in the second half of the season. Obviously.
“Injuries and fatigue must be avoided in a hectic schedule.“
After moves to Roma and PSG fell through, Ziyech will now spend the rest of the season at Chelsea.