Kostas Tsimikas considering exit as Roma enter race for Liverpool defender

Kostas Tsimikas is weighing his options ahead of a likely departure from Liverpool in the coming week, with interest from Serie A emerging as a new possibility.

The Greek international has been left out of both of Liverpool’s matches so far this season and is not expected to feature in Monday night’s trip to Newcastle.

His omission comes after the arrival of Milos Kerkez, which has left Tsimikas surplus to requirements, and amid growing transfer interest in the 29-year-old.

While Nottingham Forest, Valencia, and Lille have all been linked, no concrete progress has been made.

However, reports in Italy suggest that could soon change, with AS Roma now entering the race.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Roma view Tsimikas as a potential replacement for Anass Salah-Eddine, who is set to join Cagliari, and have proposed a straight loan deal.

Meanwhile, Gazzetta dello Sport claims preliminary talks are underway over a loan with an option to buy – a structure that would likely better suit the Premier League champions.

Tsimikas’ priority is reportedly to join a club competing in European football, and he would prefer a move abroad over remaining in the Premier League.

A switch to Roma would fit both criteria, with Gian Piero Gasperini’s side already qualified for the Europa League group stage after finishing fifth in Serie A last season.

However, questions remain over the role Tsimikas would play in Rome.

Salah-Eddine, the player he would replace, has been used only as backup to first-choice left-back Angelino.

The Dutchman, who joined Roma in February, made just three appearances in the second half of last season and is not considered part of Gasperini’s long-term plans.

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