Nicolo Zaniolo speaks out after 'failed' Leeds United bid to sign him on deadline day - Sky Sports Italy

Roma forward Nicolo Zaniolo has spoken out following his failed deadline-day move to Leeds United, saying that he'll continue to make himself "available to the Roma family."

The Whites were eyeing up Zaniolo as a potential replacement for Jack Harrison [Get Italian Football News, 31 January] who was the subject of a £20million bid from Leicester City, which was rejected by the Whites.

Reports in Italy [Corrieredellosport, 31 January] suggested that the forward would face an exile at Roma, following his actions during the latter stages of the transfer window.

Zaniolo also reportedly had a deal in place to join Bournemouth which the club turned down because of other transfer operations. However, it seems as if the Italian international superstar still has a future at the Stadio Olimpico, following his message to the club fans.

He wrote, via Sky Italy, on1 February as they also reported on Leeds' "failed" move to sign him: "Many things have been said and written about me in recent weeks and many are not true.

"The future is in our hands: I extend mine and place myself at the complete disposal of the Roma family."

Too good to be true

Considering the players’ wishes to play in the Premier League, it’s unlikely the Whites will have had the money to fund a move for the winger, and what a statement and opportunity it could have been for the club.

Zaniolo is a player of star quality, blessed with unerring and unique attacking qualities but ultimately it seemed like a move that was too good to be true. A pipe dream.

The Whites have indeed been busy so far this window, spending over £40million on quality individual players, and it's important the club do not become embroiled with any transfer sagas moving forward.

The onus is on Jesse Marsch and the players at his disposal to deliver another season of Premier League football next year. These next few weeks are absolutely pivotal for all involved.

In other Leeds United news, visit our live transfer blog for around-the-clock updates straight from Elland Road.