Real Madrid GM Sacchi wants Roma ace De Rossi

Real Madrid general manager Arrigo Sacchi is chasing AS Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi.

The 21 year-old Italy international can play on a flank or in central midfield and Sacchi wants the attacker for next season.

Sacchi took in Roma's clash with Bologna earlier this year, sparking speculation that he was checking on Roma fullback Mancini.

However, sources have told Marca that De Rossi was the player Sacchi was running his eye over.

De Rossi has a contract with Roma until 2009, with his base salary set at £600,000.

Real chiefs are confident they can convince Roma to cash in on De Rossi when the summer market opens, particularly with the club experiencing major financial problems.