Roma Battle Newcastle for Real Madrid Starlet Lucas Vázquez as Alternative to Riyad Mahrez

After Roma have stalled in negotiations for Leicester star Riyad Mahrez, the Serie A side have instead turned their attentions to Real Madrid winger Lucas Vázquez.

According to Italian transfer guru Gianluca di Marzio, the Giallorossi are targeting a number of midfielders in the post-Francesco Totti era following his retirement. 

The 2016/17 Serie A runners up have grown tired of Leicester's unrealistic price tag for Mahrez, and have now changed targets with their focus switched to Vázquez.

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The 26-year-old winger, who is equally adept on either side of the midfield, has struggled for first team minutes under manager Zinedine Zidane following the huge number of options at the Frenchmen's disposal.

When Cristiano Ronaldo was rested last year for the important fixtures and Gareth Bale was injured, Zidane instead opted for the likes of Isco and Marco Asensio as stand ins.

With his options limited in the Real Madrid first team, Vázquez could move on in an attempt to find regular game time, as World Cup 2018 approaches.

The Spanish international will be eyeing a place in the national team squad, so a move to Serie A could be feasible, as reports suggest Roma's sporting director Monchi is frustrated in the pursuit of Mahrez.

As Vázquez considers a move elsewhere, compatriot Rafa Benitez has also shown an interest in the midfielder who notched seven assists from the bench last season in La Liga. 

Although Vázquez is clinging on to a small hope that he could play a role at the Santiago Bernabéu, a move to the Premier League could be a great proposition.

Playing under the former Valencia coach on a regular basis could suit both parties, as Newcastle eye a sustained period in the English top-flight. Now the speedy winger has to choose which will be the best option for his career as Roma and Newcastle vie for his signature.