ROMA have launched a serious attempt to hi-jack Blackburn Rovers’ efforts to sign Jermaine Jones — and will use the lure of Europe to tempt him to Italy.

Rovers are still very much in the hunt to sign the American international, with Schalke happy to sell him for the right price, but do face stiff competition in the race for his signature.

Jones, who impressed on loan at Rovers at the end of last season, is keen on a return to Ewood Park and the Premier League having enjoyed his five month stint in England.

But it is understood the player also wants to play in Europe and, with Roma having qualified for the Europa League, the Italians would use that as a bargaining tool.

The 29-year-old was last night hoping to help America past Panama and into the Gold Cup final but once the tournament finishes will face a decision on his future.

Rovers and Roma are believed to both still be in discussions with his German parent club Schalke about his price, with no fee yet agreed.

A change in management at Schalke sees them in no rush to get rid of the all-action midfielder but, having failed to qualify for the Champions League next season, would be happy to see his wages off their wage bill.

Frankfurt-born Jones arrived on loan at Rovers in January after a bust up with the Schalke manager and went on to make 15 starts for the club to help them to Premier League safety.

After a slow start, he established himself as a firm fans favourite with a number of tenacious midfield displays and has gone on to be a star performer in the USA’s Gold Cup campaign.

A number of Bundesliga outfits are also believed to be interested in Jones, who is eligible to play for the States due to his father’s nationality, but it would seem Rovers and Roma are leading the way.