Liverpool defender John Arne Riise is on the verge of signing for AS Roma after being given the green light to hold talks with the Romans. A statement on the Serie A side said: "As part of ongoing negotiations with Liverpool football club regarding the signing of John Arne Riise, Roma have been authorized to deal with the agent of the player." The 26-old Norwegian fell out of favor last season and seems excluded from Rafael Benitez's plans as Udinese defender Andrea Dossena is a few steps away from Anfield. "I can confirm that John Arne Riise is in Rome for a medical and to finalize the negotiations," said Riise's agent Jan Kvalheim. The former Monaco defender confirmed his wish to complete the switch as he is seeking to have regular football.