Inter eye move for Chelsea duo

15 June 2009 08:26
Inter Milan have confirmed their intention to sign Portuguese pair Deco and Ricardo Carvalho from Chelsea. Both players have been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer. "(Inter coach Jose) Mourinho has asked us for Deco and Carvalho and we are working towards making him happy," said Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. He added: "Our wish is to sign both players and I have seen that the players' intention is to join us. We still haven't reached an agreement with Chelsea but I think we will do in a short time." Mourinho is familiar with centre-back Carvalho and midfielder Deco having coached both players at Porto. Carvalho, who moved to Chelsea in 2004 to work again under Mourinho, endured a frustrating campaign with the Blues. Injury restricted the 31-year-old to just 18 appearances this season. But Moratti is convinced Carvalho will bring plenty of experience to the Inter backline. "We are interested in Carvalho primarily for the Champions League," said Moratti. "He has the right experience, he is calm under pressure and brings experience in the defensive line. Our coach has guaranteed quality and I have every intention to make him happy." Deco joined Chelsea from Barcelona last summer but the 32-year-old also suffered injuries, making just 22 league appearances this campaign. "Deco will have two tasks: to do well immediately and to help [Brazilian player Philippe] Coutinho mature as a player. Coutinho will arrive next season [from Vasco de Gama] and plays in the same role as Deco," said Moratti.

Source: Eurosport