Aquilani claims Inter interest

(GSM) – Juventus midfielder Alberto Aquilani claims Italian champions Internazionale were interested in signing him before he opted to join the Turin club.

The injury-prone Italian midfielder moved to Juventus after enduring a difficult one-year spell at Liverpool.

Meanwhile former Reds manager Rafael Benítez, who brought Aquilani to Merseyside last season, replaced José Mourinho as Inter manager.

Although he denied that there was ever an official offer from Inter, the 26-year-old claims that Benítez wanted to bring him along to Giuseppe Meazza.

Aquilani told Mediaset Premium: “Inter wanted me this summer, they tried to get me. There was something, but nothing more.”

The former Roma player is happy with his time at Anfield despite failing to settle and hold-down a regular first-team spot in the team.

“Last season with Liverpool has been positive for me, despite the injury, although it is not easy to adapt to a different style of football,” he explained.

“I had a good relationship with the fans and I would have remained with pleasure, but some things convinced me to change and I’m very happy to have arrived at Juventus.

And Aquilani maintains his respect for Benítez, backing his former boss to succeed in his new adventure.

“I have good memories of Benítez. He allowed me to go to an important club like Liverpool.

“He’s a very important coach who will do very well at Inter. To replace Mourinho would be difficult for anyone but Benitez is tough and the right man for Inter.”