Matuzalem's Italian desire

Shakhtar Donetsk striker Francesco Matuzalem has revealed he was close to joining Roma during the summer transfer window.

Matuzalem left Italy in 2004 after spells with Parma and Brescia but admits he would be keen on a return in the future.

After missing out on the switch this summer, the 26-year-old has refused to rule out a possible move to the Stadio Olimpico next year.

Matuzalem is happy in Ukraine but concedes he would like to ply his trade in Italy once again.

"There has been contact with Roma, a negotiation had been outlined, but then everything remained as it was," he told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"But it's not the last word. I could come to Roma next summer.

"I feel good in Donetsk and I've achieved a lot, but I do long for Italy.

"I would like to come back and Rome would be a really good solution."

Meanwhile, Roma are reportedly keeping tabs on Lille striker Peter Odemwingie.

The Nigerian international has begun the season in fine form, scoring five goals in five games, attracting the interest of Luciano Spalletti.

Odemwingie has a contract until 2010 at Lille but Roma could try tempt the French side to part with the 25-year-old next summer.