Roma eye Stuttgart stopper

Sporting director Franco Baldini says that with the futures of Antoni Zago and Aldair uncertain, Bordon could come in to bolster the defence.

Bayern Munich's Sammy Kuffour was a target of the Roman club but it is far more likely that the Stuttgart stopper will be the target after Baldini confirmed they have been watching him.

"We have been following Bordon for two years," explained Baldini. "He's not famous and that's even better for us.

"Aldair and Antonio Carlos Zago's contracts will be discussed at the end of this season. Their future is linked to other operations but if we don't finalise it, one or even both could stay."

Baldini also revealed that Serie A's current top scorer Dario Hubner could be on his way from Piacenza to replace Abel Balbo.

"He could be one of our objectives considering that Abel Balbo has left Rome and we haven't replaced him.

"He's one of the forwards that we're following if Batistuta decides to stay.

"If not, we will have to sign a top striker. We may move for Eriberto. We have talked a lot with Chievo and Bologna and we're waiting for them to decide his future and the price."

Batistuta looks certain to stay according to Baldini, who said only a hefty bid from England could lure him away from Roma.

"Only if an English team offers almost what we spent to buy him from Fiorentina two years ago will we consider a deal."

Full back Christian Panucci is set to remain at the club following his loan spell from Monaco, with Roma set to conclude a permanent deal with the French club soon.

"In two weeks we will close talks with Monaco for Christian Panucci who will become a Roma player for a reasonable price," Baldini added.