Roma are reportedly growing increasingly confident that they can complete the signing of Liverpool full-back Glen Johnson on a free transfer in January.
Several reports have suggested that the England defender may leave Anfield when his contract runs out at the end of the season, with the club thought to be unlikely to offer the 30-year-old an improved salary.
However, the Daily Mail claims that Serie A giants Roma are happy to match Johnson's pay demands and will look to conclude a pre-contract agreement with the player after the New Year.
The Italian outfit are thought to have earmarked Johnson as a replacement for Ashley Cole, who has failed to impress during his brief time in the capital and has been linked with a move to the MLS.
Johnson, who joined Liverpool from Portsmouth in 2009, is able to play in both full back positions as well as on the right side of midfield, which is believed to be seen as a key reason behind the potential deal.
Chris O'Keefe
