Kewell is a free agent after being released by Liverpool at the end of his contract this year and showcased his talents at Australia's Super June World Cup qualifiers.

He skippered the side to the next round and impressed in a frontline role for the 'Roos, even managing 90 minutes in the final game against China.

And in the wake of his appearances - after apparently shrugging off the nagging injuries which plagued his time with Liverpool - competition is growing to secure his services next season.

Blackburn Rovers are now understood to be interested in keeping him in the English Premier League under new boss Paul Ince.

Valencia are also understood to have a scout at ANZ Stadium in Sydney to watch the China game on Sunday with a view to taking Kewell to La Liga next season.

Now Roma have upped the ante with a contract offer to Kewell, 29.

According to Italian new agency Ansa, the Giallorossi's €1m per season offer is about €500k less than what the Kewell is asking for.

But the club are understood to be willing to negotiate with Harry to find a compromise deal to grab him for Serie A.

Kewell is currently on holiday after the World Cup qualifying campaign but is expected to begin discussion about the possible deal next week.