Loanee Bastos eyes long-term Roma deal
New signing Michel Bastos is determined to join Roma for the long haul after completing his move to the Serie A side.
The Brazilian winger joined the capital club on loan from Al Ain for the rest of the season this week and will link up with coach Rudi Garcia once again after playing under the Frenchman at Lille.
Roma have the option of signing the 30-year-old on a permanent basis when his temporary deal ends and Bastos hopes to extend his stay at the Stadio Olimpico.
"I've stayed in touch with Garcia ever since I left Lille." Bastos said at a press conference on Thursday.
"He was an important person for me who helped me a lot.
"Garcia being here did influence my choice - that and the fact that Roma is a great club. I want to stay here for several years."
Bastos is willing to be versatile as he attempts to help Roma build on a promising season so far.
He added: "My position? I can play full-back, in midfield or attack. I want to play football and win with this team.
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
"I'm here to help my new team. I don't know where I'll play - that's up to the coach to decide
"I'm working hard to get fully fit again as soon as possible. I think it will take another 10 days or so."
'People will remember us because we got to No.1 in the world rankings and achieved great things - but our biggest regret is that we didn’t win anything': Ex-Everton star Kevin Mirallas opens up on 'honour' of being part of nation's golden generation
‘I’m sure we’d have finished in the top four or five if he hadn’t joined Chelsea in January. Him leaving damaged the team, but we couldn’t stand in his way’: Alan Curbishley reflects on failed Champions League dream after selling key player