Chelsea target Manolas unlikely to join Zenit after negotiations breakdown

Kostas Manolas' transfer from Roma to Zenit is not likely to materialise after a breakdown in negotiations between the Russian club and the player.

The 26-year-old defender was set to join the Russian Premier League outfit in a £30 million move from Roma, but a move is now unlikely to be completed.

Despite reports that the deal has fallen through due to Manolas' desire to be paid in Euro instead of ruble, a source close to the player told Goal that the collapse of negotiations has nothing to do with currency.

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The Greece international had a five-year deal on the table from Zenit and was due to undergo a medical on Wednesday, but he did not attend that procedure.

Manolas had grown frustrated with the manner in which the talks were being carried out and the proverbial plug was subsequently pulled on the switch.

The former AEK Athens and Olympiacos centre back has been on the radar of a number of clubs, but, following the disintegration of the move to Zenit, he could opt to remain at Roma.

However, there is plenty of time left before the transfer window closes.

Arsenal were previously linked with Manolas, but he won't end up at the Emirates Stadium this summer with the Gunners well stocked when it comes to central defensive options.

Antonio Conte's Chelsea, meanwhile, have also been touted as admirers of the Greek, but the Blues will have to come up with a big offer to prise him away from the Italian capital.

Manolas has been a mainstay for the Giallorossi since joining from Olympiacos in 2014, featuring in the Champions League and helping the club to two runners-up finishes in Serie A.