The sight of Roma defender Kostas Manolas involved in a heated exchange with the club's director of football after yesterday's defeat to Sampdoria has reignited rumours about the Greek defender's possible departure.

Roma manager Luciano Spalletti took the unexpected step of benching Manolas , reputedly a target for Antonio Conte's Chelsea , and the much-coveted defender took the decision badly.

With Manolas seen arguing with Roma director of football Frederic Massala on the bench after yesterday's 3-2 defeat, Italian sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport has suggested Manolas could yet be a last-minute departure from the Giallorossi before the transfer window closes tomorrow night.

Roma director Mauro Baldissoni laughed off suggestions from reporters after the match that Manolas could be headed for Manchester United and made no further comment.

The loss of the Greek international would be a blow for a club with Champions League ambitions – and reported to have wrapped up a deal for Chelsea target Franck Kessie – with fellow defender Leandro Paredes expected to switch to Juventus before tomorrow night's deadline.

But La Gazzetta says Manolas could be permitted to leave if a blockbuster offer arrives in time.