Roma make €16m move for Barcelona target Gerson

Roma want Gerson. Although Barcelona have the first rights to the Fluminense footballer, having paid €3.2million, the Italian side have started negotiating with the Brazilian side.

Preferential rights means Barcelona have priority over signing him if they equal the offer Roma have tabled, which is approximately €16m. The club have until the weekend to match Roma's offer. 

Last week president Josep Maria Bartomeu gave the go-ahead to speed up Gerson's signing. One factor which should tip the balance in Barcelona's favour is that the club are working well and have an understanding with Gerson's father, Marco Antonio Silva - 'Marcao'. Furthermore, Gerson would love to wear the same shirt as Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr.