Aleksandar Mitrovic is stalling Newcastle United as he waits to assess his options this summer, amid interest from Serie A runners-up Roma.
Mitrovic was expected in England by Newcastle this morning, but he did not show up, according to Italian broadcaster Sportitalia, and instead sent his father.
The Serbian's father is thought to have explained to the Magpies that his son's priority is at present another club and the striker needs time to assess his next move.
And while Mitrovic's father was delivering the message, Roma were putting a bid together for the Serbian, having held talks with Anderlecht about their expectations from a transfer fee.
The Giallorossi's situation however is also complicated by the fact that they are attempting to do a deal for Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko.
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Anderlecht are asking for €16m for Mitrovic and it is unclear how much the Giallorossi would have to spend to sign Dzeko.
Roma can offer Mitrovic Champions League football after finishing second behind Juventus in Serie A last season.
