Monchi confident squad is '90% complete'

The Spaniard, who saw his new side lose to his old one 2-1 in the Antonio Puerta Trophy on Thursday night, expressed his delight at being able to add someone of Kolarov's quality and character to the squad.

"This is the last unveiling [of the signings so far], but not the least," Monchi said. "I'm very pleased to have Aleksandar here with us today.

"I believe Roma have made a great signing, not only in terms of his ability as a footballer but also because of the man he is. I think he will make a big contribution both on the pitch and in the dressing room."

See everything else the sporting director had to say...

In the previous press conference you said you hoped to see the team make progress. Were there signs of that in last night's match?

"I think we're moving forward. Yesterday's friendly was the one that gave me the most positive indication of the four so far. Clearly there are things that need improving but I can already see the team resembling the type of football the coach wants to play. There's room for improvement but I'm pleased."

What do you think Kolarov can offer? Was it a quick deal?

"Yes, we very quickly agreed terms. Aleksandar knew we were interested in him and I sensed that the feeling was mutual. That led us very quickly to an agreement. Yesterday's match was the best possible response he could have given. He displayed ability, strength and commitment in his performance. Last night's game was the best example of what Aleksandar can offer Roma."

Will you bid again for [Riyad] Mahrez?

"In the last press conference I said we had bid what we believe to be a fair offer, which is also the biggest in the club's history. We won't bid again. We've conducted ourselves in the right way by talking to Leicester City. Now the ball is in their court. We're waiting for an answer. We're working on other options but we're relaxed given our squad is 90% complete."

Do you think it would be risky to start the season with the defence as it is?

"Let's take it position by position. Rick [Karsdorp] is working his way back to full fitness and [Bruno] Peres is performing well. Aleksandar can play on the left, along with [Hector] Moreno and Juan Jesus. We have enough options at the back with which to start the campaign. As I've said, we'll talk to the coach after these two friendlies. Either way, I'm pleased with yesterday's performance."

Are you concerned by the inflated transfer fees in the current climate?

"There's no sign of this ending any time soon. You must adapt to the situation but I'm concerned in general - I don't know if football can withstand this level of inflation. We're sitting on a gold mine - hopefully we don't ruin it."

Is it true Juventus have bid for [Kevin] Strootman?

"We have no interest in speaking to Juventus or any other club about Kevin Strootman."

How did it feel to return to the Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan?

"It was a special fixture. I went back there on the opposition side for the first time in my life. It was a mixed bag of emotions: personal feelings as a native of Seville and objective views as a member of Roma senior management. It was a great game for the fans and the tribute to Antonio Puerta from the players and fans was magnificent."

Do you think both Roma and Sevilla can have a good season? Can Roma win silverware?

"I think Sevilla and Roma have enough to do well in their respective commitments this season. The here and now is Sevilla's Champions League play-off and Roma's trip to Atalanta. One of my aims is to work to make the fans' dreams come true - and they're dreaming of winning trophies."

How has it felt spending the summer away from Sevilla?

"The weather has been much the same, so too the workload. I always gave 100% for Sevilla and I will do likewise for Roma. I've been given an incredible welcome. I have an excellent relationship with my colleagues, the media and the fans."