July 29, 2007	Sunday	Rajab 13, 1428

ROME, July 28: Romanian international defender Cristian Chivu finally completed his 13-million euro move from Rome to Inter Milan on Friday, bringing to an end the most protracted transfer saga in Serie A this summer.

In addition to the money, Roma also received half ownership of Inter’s Italy under-21 international Marco Andreolli.

Chivu, 26, gave an emotional farewell at a press conference at Roma’s Trigoria training ground.

“I’ve spent four wonderful years here, full of satisfaction,” said the versatile defender. “But sometimes in football you have to make a choice and I felt this was the right move for me. My journey in this country and this league is not yet finished. I chose Inter to go towards what I have always dreamed of. These are trains that pass by only once in your life, and you have to catch them.”

Serie A champions Inter have been chasing Chivu, who can play at centre-back, full-back or in midfield, since June.

Real Madrid made a formal 18-million-euro offer for Chivu at the beginning of July, but he didn’t want to leave Italy.

When Real made their offer, Inter withdrew their interest only to revive it once Chivu had turned down the chance to join the Spanish champions.

“It was flattering that Real wanted me, but I wanted to remain in Italy,” Chivu said.—AFP