Transfer Window: Is Roma's New Owner Prepared for a Raid of American Talent?

A mid-season ownership change took place at Italian club AS Roma with American businessman Thomas DiBenedetto taking over the Giallorossi, a club looking to return to glory.

The club based in the capital city has failed to win the Scudetto since 2001 and has recently fallen from title contention, and for the second time in three years will be taking their abilities to the UEFA Europa League, yet again conceding a place in the Champions League as they are on the path to finishing sixth.

As a bulk of the squad's players are getting towards the end of their careers, its time for DiBenedetto to begin his first transfer window process, and several Americans are on the radar.

While many European giants continue to overlook some of Uncle Sam's finest, DiBenedetto has made it a priority of his chief scout to short list some American players who could make a positive impact at the club. Part of his goal, besides winning, is to increase the exposure of Roma in the North American market.

The other day, it was reported that the club have an interest in Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Landon Donovan. The 29-year old, whose World Cup goal against Algeria will go down as one of the most important goals in American soccer history, has previously spent time with Bayer Leverkusen, on loan at Bayern Munich, and on loan at Everton. He is the most wanted American on a global scale. Last summer, Manchester City, Everton, Liverpool, and AC Milan were among the names linked with Donovan.

It was surprise enough to see Roma linked with Donovan, but then the list was revealed in an MLSsoccer.com interview to have many more names.

Joining Donovan at the top of the list is 23-year old Michael Bradley, currently on loan at English side Aston Villa from German club Borussia Monchengladbach. The son of national team coach Bob Bradley, Michael has been successful on the club and national level and possesses the skills to adapt to the Italian game.

Several other players were on the list. 18-year old Juan Agudelo, the New York Red Bull's forward who has turned heads very early on, FC Nurnberg fullback Timmy Chandler, who performed well for the national team in his first call-up in March, Aston Villa second-string goalkeeper Brad Guzan, and Anderlecht midfielder Sacha Kljestan are all of interest to Roma.

Its likely that at least one American could be making a move to the capital this summer, but who is most likely to is not known. This move would certainly be a good move for any of these players.