Roma target Nicolas Burdisso

Roma target Nicolas Burdisso

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti is hoping to add Nicolas Burdisso to his squad before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.

The Giallorossi, who visit Genoa in their season opener on Sunday, looked vulnerable at the back during Thursday night's 3-3 Europa League draw at MFK Kosice and Spalletti is optimistic Inter defender Burdisso will help strengthen a key area.

"He is someone with character and experience. He could have the quality to add something extra to our team," said Spalletti, who could have the Argentina international in the squad to travel north if the paperwork can be completed in time.

It has been a quiet summer at Roma, due largely to the club's substantial debt which has prevented any major incomings.

Indeed, the only significant transfer involving the club has seen midfielder Alberto Aquilani join Liverpool in a £20million deal.

Spalletti is adamant, however, his squad can at least match last season's sixth-place finish.

"I am convinced this is a squad worthy of Roma, the quality of young players is important," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"If other transactions are made then it will not create difficulties in our approach to the championship. This team was built with large investments, based on results in past seasons. The objective has always been growth and victory."

Genoa finished one place and five points ahead of Roma last season. Serie A's surprise package narrowly missed out on a place in the Champions League and were regarded as the best team to watch in Italy's top flight.

Matching those achievements will be tricky, especially as last season's mainstays Thiago Motta, Diego Milito, Matteo Ferrari and goalkeeper Rubinho have all left.

In have come experienced Argentinian Hernan Crespo, Housseine Kharja, Alberto Zapater, Sergio Floccari - although he will miss out this weekend through injury - and exciting Boca Juniors forward Rodrigo Palacio.

It has left the squad looking slightly thin especially as they also have the Europa League to contend with this season.

Zapater is confident, however, the players will rise to the challenge of the added workload.

"I know my football and how the team plays," said the former Real Zaragoza midfielder.

"I want to win all the games, even the ones in training. I know it may not be possible to do so, but I will try nevertheless.

"Every game in Italy is difficult and the league here is fascinating. If I have to pick an objective it would be to stay here for many years."

Genoa opened their European campaign on Thursday night with a 3-1 first-leg defeat of Odense in the Europa League play-off.

Luciano Figueroa scored twice for the hosts and he will be Genoa's main threat again tomorrow.