Mourinho's first big signing
2008-07-15 16:53
Milan - AS Roma's Brazilian midfielder
Mancini has become Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho's first major
signing, the Italian champions said on Tuesday.
Roma, who finished second to Inter last season, announced an
initial agreement last week and the deal has now been finalised
after the player returned to Italy from holiday.
Inter said in a statement the skilful and versatile Mancini,
who normally operates on the left wing, would be presented to
the media later but no financial details of the transfer were
given.
The 27-year-old, who had an uneasy relationship with Roma
coach Luciano Spalletti, is the second top player in two seasons
to switch between the two rivals.
Romania centre back Cristian Chivu left Roma for Inter at
the start of last season in an acrimonious move.
Inter were tracking Mancini even before Mourinho's arrival
and his signing now makes it less likely they will bid for
Porto's Ricardo Quaresma. Their interest in Chelsea midfielder
Frank Lampard remains, however.
Luis Figo, a rival to Mancini on the left flank, is still
expected to sign a new one-year deal with Inter rather than
retire.
Mancini is no relation to former Inter coach Roberto
Mancini, who was sacked at the end of last term despite Inter
retaining the league title.
- Reuters