Chelsea Transfer News: Radja Nainggolan Deals Blues Blow Amid Latest Rumours

Chelsea appear to have failed in their pursuit of AS Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan, who has expressed his intention to stay in the Italian capital.

According to Gazzetta World's Cronan Yu, the Belgian said on Wednesday: "Everything is calm with [director of football Walter] Sabatini. Will I stay at Roma? Yes, I’m going to remain here."

Yu added that the midfielder is in the process of negotiating a new €4 million (£3.4 million) contract with the club.

According to MailOnline's Tom Bassam, Roma have rejected three Blues bids for the midfielder this summer, the most recent of which worth £33 million.

The Blues could have benefited from his presence in the centre thanks to his ability to make things happen—strong, powerful and dynamic, he can shield the back four and contribute going forward.

According to Bassam, Chelsea may turn their attentions to his international team-mate Axel Witsel. David Amoyal, a translator for Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, seemingly prefers Nainggolan:

The 27-year-old isn't quite as physical but is a fine player in his own right.

Claude Paris/Associated Press

According to WhoScored.com, in 29 appearances in the Russian Premier League last season, he won an average of 1.4 tackles and made 1.5 interceptions per game, showing his capacity for effectively regaining possession for his side.

WhoScored.com also revealed he is also an accomplished passer of the ball:

Central midfield is one of the most pressing issues facing manager Antonio Conte this summer, as he has few options available to him beyond Cesc Fabregas and Nemanja Matic, who both had disappointing seasons.

Witsel would make a far better alternative than the likes of John Obi Mikel and help the Blues not only win back but also keep possession of the ball.