Roma have extended goalkeeper Wojciech Sczesny loan deal for a further season off the back of a relatively successful loan last term. 

The Pole, departs Premier League side Arsenal having dropped behind Petr Cech in the pecking order and made over 150 appearances for the Gunners since debuting in 2009.

Last season in Serie A, he featured in all bar four of the giallorssi's games as they finished third behind Napoli and champions Juventus. Furthermore, he was also the go to man for the capital club in Europe and featured in every game before they were knocked out by eventual winners Real Madrid in the round of 16.

Szcesny's arrival is the second in as many days as defender Federico Fazio has joined on-loan from Tottenham as Roma aim to cure their defensive woes.

Battle for number one

Last season, Szczesny' only competition for the jersey came from veterans Bogdan Lobont and Morgan De Sanctis, both of whom are well past their best years. The latter of the two has since moved on to join Monaco in the top tier in France.

Roma completed the signing of Brazilian keeper Alisson earlier in the mercato and it will be interesting to watch the battle for the jersey over the course of the season.

Alisson saves a chipped effort from Sturridge | Photo: liverpoolecho.co.uk
Alisson saves a chipped effort from Sturridge | Photo: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Alisson was signed as the replacement for thought to be outgoing Szczesny, clearly showing he is viewed as highly as the Polish international and arguably has the upperhand in the battle having showcased his ability to manager Luciano Spaletti over the course of pre-season.

Spaletti praised the 23-year-old after the 2-1 victory over Liverpool said "he made some good saves, showed personality and impressed from a physical standpoint. He is definitely a player of the quality of Roma, and a player we can count on" but insisted that "he must still settle in."

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Cammy Anderson
Calcio-editor-in-chief Email: [email protected]