The midfielder is being heavily linked with a January move to Manchester United and the Roma coach has confessed he does not know where the player’s future lies

Rudi Garcia says that while Kevin Strootman is a crucial player for Roma, only club president James Palotta knows if the midfielder is for sale.

The 24-year-old only joined the Giallorossi from PSV last summer and is still recovering from the knee injury he sustained in March of this year.

However, Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal is reportedly desperate to sign his compatriot during the January transfer window and Garcia has admitted that he does not know where the player’s future lies.

“Strootman for sale? You must speak about this with our president,” the Roma boss told reporters after Tuesday’s Champions League draw with Manchester City at the Etihad.

“But the intention of the club is very clear: Strootman is an important talent for us.

“I want to have him available for the home match against City [on December 10], which will be crucial.

“He is a midfielder of the highest level and we’re waiting for him to return. We hope to have him back soon.”

Strootman tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a 1-0 loss at Napoli on March 9 but is expected to return to action next month.