Alejandro Garnacho could leave Chelsea as Roma make approach

Alejandro Garnacho could be offered a route out of Chelsea after just one season, with Roma reportedly making an approach for the Argentina international.

The 22-year-old endured a difficult first campaign at Stamford Bridge, scoring once and providing four assists in 24 Premier League appearances. His involvement was even more limited in the Champions League, where he played only 330 minutes.

Now Roma have stepped forward as Garnacho searches for a more prominent role.

According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà, Roma have made a move for Garnacho as Gian Piero Gasperini looks to strengthen his attacking options.

The Serie A club's interest is not expected to affect their pursuit of Mason Greenwood, suggesting Roma could attempt to add more than one forward during the summer transfer window.

Their qualification for the Champions League has also strengthened their financial position. Pedullà reports that Roma have flexibility over the structure of any potential deal and could pursue a permanent transfer if negotiations with Chelsea develop.

No fee has been reported and there is no suggestion of an agreement at this stage, but Roma's approach gives Garnacho a possible escape route after a frustrating year in London.

Garnacho arrived at Chelsea with a substantial Premier League reputation after establishing himself at Manchester United, but he struggled to reproduce his best form during his first season at Stamford Bridge.

One goal and four assists in the league represented a modest return for a player expected to provide direct running and a regular threat in the final third. His limited Champions League minutes also highlighted his struggle to secure a consistent role.

The situation has left Chelsea with a decision to make. They can retain Garnacho and hope he improves in his second season or consider offers while there is significant interest in the winger.

Having followed Chelsea's campaign closely, the lack of continuity has been one of the main obstacles for Garnacho. His game has traditionally relied on confidence, space and repeated opportunities to attack defenders, but he rarely enjoyed an extended run in the side.

However, one difficult season does not necessarily mean his Chelsea career cannot be revived. At 22, there is still considerable room for development.

A move to Roma would provide a very different environment.

Gasperini has built a reputation for improving attacking players and giving them clearly defined responsibilities within his aggressive man-to-man system. Garnacho's pace and willingness to carry the ball could make him an intriguing option for the Italian coach.

Roma have already enjoyed success with a Premier League attacker seeking a new start. Donyell Malen initially joined from Aston Villa during the winter transfer window before his move was made permanent following an impressive spell.

The hope would be that Garnacho could follow a similar path.

There could also be space opening in Roma's attack. Uncertainty surrounds the futures of Matías Soulé and Paulo Dybala, and any departures would increase the need for new attacking options.

Italy has long been considered a possible destination for Garnacho.

Napoli pursued him during his time at Manchester United and, at one stage, reports suggested a move was close. That transfer never materialised, but Roma's approach shows his profile continues to appeal to leading Serie A clubs.

The difference now is that Garnacho may be more open to a fresh start after struggling for regular football at Chelsea.

Much will depend on the Blues' valuation and whether they are prepared to sanction a permanent departure after only one season. Roma's Champions League qualification gives them greater room to negotiate, but there is no indication yet that Chelsea have decided to sell.

Roma are expected to explore the conditions of a possible transfer while continuing to assess other attacking targets.

Chelsea must decide whether Garnacho remains part of their plans or whether a move would be the best solution after his disappointing debut season. The player's own position will also be crucial, particularly if Gasperini can offer the regular role he struggled to secure at Stamford Bridge.

For now, Roma have made their interest known. The next step is finding out whether Chelsea are ready to open the door.

Would Alejandro Garnacho rediscover his best form under Gian Piero Gasperini, or should Chelsea give him another season to prove himself?