Defender Simone Loria has yet to sign for Roma and Juventus are ready to pounce, according to Siena sporting director Manuel Gerolin.

A move to the capital seemed a mere formality over the last few weeks with negotiations openly taking place and the player himself voicing his pleasure at the proposed transfer.

However, the future remains unresolved as La Vecchia Signora have now entered the market for the 31-year-old. A tug-of-war between the sides that finished second and third in Serie A looms.

Gerolin said: "At the moment we are looking to complete a move to Roma because the player really wants to go there.

"However, there has been an approach from Juventus and we are also on excellent terms with them.

"Soon we will meet with Roma officials to see if we can agree something. These things take some time because there are details to be sorted out."

Juve have already signed Swedish international Olof Mellberg to shore up their back-line this summer, while Roma have acquired left-back John Arne Riise from Liverpool as they seek reinforcements at centre-back for Philippe Mexes and Juan.