AS Roma have emerged as a shock candidate for Pep Guardiola. The former Barcelona coach has declared he intends to return to management this year, with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and AC Milan battling for his services.

However, Il Tempo says Roma are also in the frame thanks to the close friendship of Guardiola and Giallorossi GM Franco Baldini.

It was through this relationship that Luis Enrique won the Roma post last season, while Baldini attempted to convince Guardiola to take charge last summer before his New York sabbatical.

Roma's American owners have the money to tempt the Spaniard, who would relish working with Baldini to transform the club into a European power again.