Roma are reportedly prepared to challenge rivals Lazio for the signature of Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen.
It has been widely claimed that Barca are prepared to part with the Belgium international, who has been limited to just 12 appearances for the club since his arrival from Arsenal in 2014 because of injuries.
A report claimed yesterday that Lazio had expressed an interest, but they will now face competition from neighbours Roma, according to The Mirror.
The report adds that the Romans would have no problem meeting Barca's asking price for the 30-year-old, which is thought to stand at around £5m.
