Roma centre-back Kostas Manolas has admitted he would struggle to turn down Barcelona or Real Madrid.
Manolas, 27, has grown into one of Europe’s best centre-backs since he joined from Olympiakos in August 2014. A contract extension signed until 2022, however, contains a €36 million release clause.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Greece international admitted he’d be placed in a tricky position if a La Liga giant came calling.
Manolas said: “If a club like Real Madrid or Barcelona were to come along, apart from Francesco Totti who turned them down, I think everyone would think about it.
“We’d then have to evaluate the conditions, because I can assure you that it’s not easy for anyone to leave Roma.
“Totti was fundamental in convincing me to stay. I spoke to him more than I did [director of sport] Monchi.
“I don’t feel like a leader and I am not the captain. It doesn’t matter that I’ve been here for many years. We are all the same in the locker room.
“Now talented young players have arrived and they need our help. All I can pledge is that I’ll give my all.”
Manolas has scored eight times in 180 appearances for Roma.
