Roma close in on Rafael Cabral

Italian newspaper Il Corriere dello Sport understands that AS Roma are on the verge of signing Santos goalkeeper Rafael Cabral.

The Giallorossi have made the Brazilian their number one target after Maarten Stekelenburg was allowed to join Fulham.

Roma officials are believed to have already agreed personal terms with the player, but the deal is still not finalized.

While the Giallorossi are ready to meet Santos’ €6 million valuation of the player, so is Napoli, who see the youngster as a great long-term replacement for veteran Morgan De Sanctis.

Roma are still hoping to win the race for Rafael’s signature, but they seem to have several back-up options as well.

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, the Giallorossi are also following Botafogo keeper Jefferson and Saint Etienne shot-stopper Stephane Ruffier.

The Stadio Olimpico outfit have just appointed former Lille boss Rudia Garcia as their new head coach and have in turn been linked with a number of players from French Ligue 1.