AS Roma chief Franco Baldini concedes Daniele de Rossi can now sign for a rival club on a pre-contract. De Rossi, a confirmed target for Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini, comes off contract in June.

"De Rossi is out due to physical problems and cannot play. The contract has nothing to do with it," said Baldini.

"Now he can sign with anyone and everyone - including Roma. I am confident and optimistic. The negotiations are going on and we are continuing the conversation with the other party.

"We want to continue the relationship and he wants to stay. Now we must find an agreement."