Mourinho's Roma make room for Isco

Roma are trying to land Isco, as the Italian club look to make a serious push for the Champions League next season.

Jose Mourinho looks to have convinced the club's American owners, the Friedkin Group, that reinforcements are needed. However, with Serie A no longer having the financial pull that it used to, the Giallorossi know they must get creative in order to strengthen the side.

Isco being out of a contract is one of the reasons Roma, along with some other clubs, are taking a look at the midfielder, even though MARCA have learned his preference is to stay in Spain.

Mourinho is a coach who wants him

Mourinho has become the focal point at Roma, with his position strengthened after leading the club to victory in the Conference League final in Tirana.

The tactician continues to work in close contact with Jorge Mendes, with the agent having already brought one of his clients, Sergio Oliveira (Porto) to the Olimpico. Isco would be another, as he is still represented by the Portuguese super-agent.

The ideal system for Isco

Mourinho's formation at Roma has changed with time, but the 3-5-2 and 3-4-2-1 have now become his go to's. The former relies on Tammy Abraham and Nicolo Zaniolo, while the latter sees two midfielders slot in behind the English striker.

In both those systems, Isco would be free to shine in midfield.

At the back, Mourinho relies on three central defenders and a defensive pivot like Bryan Cristante to help the more creative midfielders.

Lorenzo Pellegrini (Conference League MVP and Italy international) would likely form a strong partnership with Isco as well.

Roma are freeing up space

Roma must also deal with the departure of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, as reports in Italy state he has turned down a new contract in order to join Inter on a free transfer.

The Armenian, who earned 3.5 million euros a season, was a versatile member of Mourinho's midfield, featuring as a playmaker and in less advanced roles as well.

Then there is Zaniolo. Sky Italia say his sale, which would bring in 50m euros to 60m euros, would help Roma's economic problems. It would also free up more space on the field for Isco.