Roma evaluating legal options after Malcom's unexpected U-turn

Bordeaux's Brazilian forward Malcom celebrates after scoring a goal during the L1 football match Olympique Lyonnais (OL) vs FC Girondins de Bordeaux (FCGB), on August 19, 2017 at the Groupama stadium in Décines-Charpieu near Lyon, southeastern France. / AFP PHOTO / PHILIPPE DESMAZES
AFP Contributor / AFP / Getty

Roma is weighing legal action against Bordeaux after the French outfit reneged on an agreement to send Brazilian winger Malcom to the Italian capital.

Sporting director Monchi spoke about his frustrations with Bordeaux during the unveiling of goalkeeper Robin Olsen on Tuesday, when Malcom was also expected to undergo medicals.

The 21-year-old was scheduled to fly to Rome late Monday evening, but a late bid from Barcelona forced a change of plans. He ended up signing with the Blaugrana less than 24 hours later.

"It is true that nothing was signed, but there are many messages with agents and (Bordeaux's) president that are at least worth being assessed," Monchi told reporters.

Roma decided to increase its offer once the club learned about Barcelona's interest, but balked when Bordeaux requested a more substantial amount.

"I am very sorry for what has happened, but I believe that we had a complete agreement with Bordeaux - and then offered even more than that to get it done again," Monchi added. "President (James) Palotta made the decision to make the best offer possible, but when the negotiation became an auction, we decided to withdraw from it.

"If someone wants to come to Roma, that is great, but ultimately if they do not want to come to Rome then we do not want them."

Malcom joined Barcelona for an initial €41 million.

XRedditFacebookWhatsAppEmailSMS

More Stories