Roma signs France defender Lucas Digne on loan from PSG

ROME (AP) — France international Lucas Digne has joined Roma on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, providing the Serie A challenger with a new option at left back

ROME (AP) — France international Lucas Digne has joined Roma on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, providing the Serie A challenger with a new option at left back after Ashley Cole struggled last season.

Roma announced that it is paying PSG a 2.5 million euro ($2.9 million) loan fee and will have the option to purchase Digne's full rights at the end of the season.

The 22-year-old Digne began his professional career at Lille and made his debut for the club in 2011 under current Roma coach Rudi Garcia. He signed a five-year deal with PSG in 2013.

Digne made one appearance for France at last year's World Cup and has eight caps overall with his national team.

The 34-year-old Cole was reduced to a bench role by the end of last season.