Totti urges Roma to fight off interest for highly-rated Benatia

Totti urges Roma to fight off interest for highly-rated Benatia

Published May. 29, 2014 12:54 p.m. ET

Francesco Totti hopes Roma can fend off interest in Mehdi Benatia and keep the highly-rated center-back at Stadio Olimpico.

Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are all reported to be keen on taking Benatia to the Premier League on the back of a standout season in Italy.

The 27-year-old Morocco international helped Roma to finish as runners-up in Serie A, with his commanding presence at the heart of their back four providing the most reliable of defensive foundations.

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Benatia has, however, sparked speculation over his future by airing his disappointment at the terms offered in a contract extension proposal.

Roma skipper Totti is reluctant to be drawn into a debate regarding financial matters, but believes the club should be doing all they can to retain the services of a 'top player'.

He told Sky Italia: "He is a strong player, who can perform at international level.

"Benatia is a top player and these are players that should be kept.

"I do not want to talk about the business matters, but I just hope that we can find a solution."

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