Roma granted Riise access

Norwegian in Rome to undergo medical

By Peter Fraser & Kent Hedlundh   Last updated: 18th June 2008

Riise JohnArne

Riise: Roma talks

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Roma have been granted permission by Liverpool to open discussions with John Arne Riise and the defender is in Italy to undergo a medical.

The Norwegian full-back fell out of favour at Liverpool last term and recently admitted that he could move on before returning to pre-season training with the Reds.

Premier League sides Newcastle and Aston Villa are also reportedly considering a move for Riise, but it appears to be Roma who are in the driving seat.

A statement on the Italian club's official website insists reports linking Riise with a move to Serie A within the next week are premature, but they have confirmed that talks are taking place.

Negotiations

The statement said: "As part of ongoing negotiations with Liverpool football club regarding the signing of John Arne Riise, Roma have been authorised to deal with the agent of the player."

And Riise's agent Jan Kvalheim has revealed that the 26-year-old is in Rome to undergo a medical.

"I can confirm that John Arne Riise is in Rome for a medical and to finalise the negotiations." Kvalheim told NTB. "A few small details remain."

Riise joined Liverpool in a £4.6million move from Monaco in June 2001 and he has gone on to make 347 appearances for the Reds and has scored 37 goals in that time.