AS Roma are approaching Porto with interest in Portuguese midfielder Sergio Oliveira, according to Gianluca Di Marzio. Roma recently completed a loan deal with Arsenal for Ainsley Maitland-Niles, but are still moving forward with upgrading their midfield. Di Marzio mentions that Roma are “pressing the accelerator” for the player, as manager Jose Mourinho is keen on him.
AS Roma Chasing Porto Midfielder Sergio Oliveira
The Player and the Fit
Mourinho’s always liked to have a few of his fellow Portuguese countrymen on his team. More times than not, this has paid off. Oliveira fits the bill, not only because of his nationality but also because of his skill. Just a couple of months ago he was outstanding against one of Roma’s Serie A rivals in AC Milan in the Champions League. That gave Serie A enthusiasts a look at what Oliveira may potentially bring to Roma.
He’s a versatile midfielder. Although he typically plays centrally, Porto has used him in both more defensive and attacking roles as well. In 22 appearances thus far this season, Oliveira has five goals and an assist to his name. Of course, these aren’t the best statistics to judge a midfielder, but he’s very capable of producing in just about all midfield positions.
Roma have a decent amount of solid midfield players, at least by name. Mourinho typically has a very strict playstyle, however, so it’s clear he’s adjusting Roma to his preferences so far in his first season. Although the team is coming off a 3-1 loss to Milan, they’re still in a position to compete for the top four in Italy.
Mourinho may emphasize this transfer, such as he did for getting Tammy Abraham to Roma. That deal is already paying off and should continue to do so, so expect Roma to place faith in Mourinho. Oliveira is 29-years-old, so he’s not necessarily a long-time solution, but he’s still got plenty of prime years under his belt.
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