Roma have opened talks over a January move for Yannick Carrasco, but the Belgian’s salary remains the biggest obstacle.

Roma are reportedly in discussions over a potential January move for Belgium international Yannick Carrasco, who plays in the Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab.

According to multiple outlets in Italy, the Giallorossi are still looking to strengthen their attacking options despite already securing two forward additions this month in Donyell Malen from Aston Villa and Robinio Vaz from Olympique de Marseille.

There are reports that Gian Piero Gasperini is keen to add another outlet on the left flank, prompting Roma to explore the possibility of bringing in the experienced Carrasco to provide depth, quality and tactical flexibility.

Roma’s preference is believed to be a loan move with an option to buy, allowing the club to manage both sporting and financial risk. It is also reported that Mario Hermoso, Carrasco’s former Atletico Madrid teammate, has been in contact with the Belgian as part of Roma’s efforts to sound out the move.

The major stumbling block, however, remains Carrasco’s salary. The winger is said to earn around €13m per season in Saudi Arabia, a figure that would comfortably make him the highest-paid player in Serie A.

Unless a compromise can be reached on wages, Roma’s pursuit of Carrasco could prove difficult to complete.