Roma boss admits concerns over Edin Dzeko mindset amid Chelsea links

Roma boss Eusebio Di Francesco has confirmed that Edin Dzeko will start against Sampdoria on Wednesday evening, despite concerns over his state of mind.

The Bosnia-Herzegovina international has emerged as Chelsea's top transfer target, as Antonio Conte looks to strengthen his attack during the January window.

Talks between the two clubs are understood to be ongoing, though Roma are holding out for more than the £28m Chelsea have offered up front.

Di Francesco plans to speak to Dzeko ahead of his side's Serie A showdown with Sampdoria at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, with the intention of starting the ex-Manchester City ace up top.

"As things stand at the moment, he will [start]. Obviously I'm going to have to assess things and see what frame of mind he's in. I'll speak to him about it," he told reporters at his pre-match press conference.

"I have to make sure everyone is ready for it – including the players whose names are in the papers. As things stand, all the players who are here are available for this hugely important match we have to play in 36 hours' time."

Roma full-back Emerson Palmieri is understood to be on the brink of completing a switch to Chelsea, meanwhile, in a move worth around £20m.