Riise heading to Roma from Liverpool?

Filed in archive Transfer rumours on June 18, 2008

Liverpool's long serving left-back John Arne Riise is believed to be discussing a possible 6m euros (£4.75m) move to Serie A side AS Roma.

The AS Roma website states that the club have been given permission by Rafa Benitez to discuss personal terms with the 27-year-old Norwiegan international player.

Riise has been with the Anfield club for nearly seven years and has played his part in winning the FA Cup, League Cup and, of course, the Champions League.

Liverpool are refusing to comment on any transfer rumours but this one would seem to have some substance as Riise was generally second choice to Brazilian full back Fabio Aurelio last season who has established himself as the club's first choice left-back.

Riise has long been a target for AS Roma and with Liverpool unlikely to want him as first choice, they may well be happy to take the money.

Riise has been a great servant for Liverpool and has scored some spectacular goals. A magnificent strike against Manchester United at Anfield some years ago springs to mind. Unfortunately, he may well be remembered more for the goal he scored at the wrong end in this season's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea that may well have ultimately cost his side a place a in the final.

For such a great and loyal player it would be a shame to bow out on such a low.