Rumors are swirling around Roma and Milan, with both clubs potentially reconvening at the negotiation table this winter to map out the future of Alexis Saelemaekers at the Stadio Olimpico. As reported by Calciomercato, Claudio Ranieri’s side is now poised to offer Bryan Cristante in a bid to secure the permanent signature of the Belgian winger.

The saga surrounding Saelemaekers’ loan to Roma reflects broader tensions at Milan, particularly the fallout from Paulo Fonseca’s discontent when the club decided to let the talented 25-year-old leave on loan during the frantic end of the summer transfer window. Milan’s intent was to facilitate the arrival of Tammy Abraham to San Siro, but it seems that decision may not yield the expected dividends.

Abraham, despite an initial fanfare, has struggled significantly to deliver against expectations. While his scoring record remains occasionally bright, consistency has eluded him, and as the season progresses, whispers of a potential return to the Italian capital grow louder. Meanwhile, Saelemaekers has been steadily climbing the ranks in Rome, flourishing under Ranieri’s tactical acumen.

Saelemaekers has quickly endeared himself to the Roma faithful, establishing himself as a vital cog in Ranieri’s first-team machine. As his performances continue to impress, the Giallorossi are keen to act swiftly, aiming to finalize a permanent move before the summer rolls around.

Milan, however, is holding firm with an asking price of up to €20 million for Saelemaekers, a figure that Roma find hard to swallow. Instead, they are contemplating a strategic swap that could see Cristante heading back to his old stomping grounds as leverage to negotiate a more favorable deal.

Cristante, who emerged from Milan’s youth academy, never truly got the chance to showcase his talents at the senior level. Now, after navigating a difficult path at Roma, he appears ready for a fresh start, and a return to Milan could provide just the opportunity he needs to reignite his career among familiar surroundings.

Tonight’s crucial Serie A clash could serve as the perfect backdrop for Roma to unveil their proposal to Milan, marking the beginning of what promises to be an intriguing winter transfer window.