Nantes winger Christian Wilhelmsson has joined Roma on loan, after Middlesbrough also showed interest in the Sweden international.
Wilhelmsson has struggled to make an impact at Nantes since arriving from Belgian side Anderlecht last season.
He has now linked up with Roma on loan for the rest of the season, with the option of a four-year contract in the summer.
According to his agent Fabio Alho, Middlesbrough were also keen on the player, who was previously linked with Tottenham Hotspur.
Alho said: "Those clubs made concrete offers.
"Christian loves to attack. Coach Georges Eo has a different view about football, so it is better for everyone if Christian leaves, at least until June."
Wilhelmsson's new coach Luciano Spalletti expressed his delight at being able to bring the wide man to Roma.
Spalletti said: "I know him because he was on trial at Udinese a few years ago, even if he then decided to go to Anderlecht.
"He can play on the attacking wing on both sides - left and right.
"With him, who has arrived on loan with the possibility of signing permanently in the summer, we have seven players for four roles, and for this reason we feel good."