Roma are trying to extend Nicolo Zaniolo's contract by another five years to keep him out of Arsenal's clutches, according to a report.

The Gunners are believed to like the look of the 22-year-old and could target him as a replacement for Aaron Ramsey, who will head the opposite way to Italy with Juventus.

Zaniolo is a more attacking option, comfortable playing off the striker or in a deeper midfield position, and his versatility has also earned him links with a move to Real Madrid and Chelsea.

Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Roma are desperate to keep hold of the recently-capped Italy international, however, and they could meet the player's wage demands of £2m a season.

Talks are said to be scheduled between the Giallorossi and Zaniola's agent for Thursday.

Should an agreement not be reached, Arsenal will supposedly weigh up whether to make a £36m offer for a player who only made his senior debut in September.