He may not be Ronaldinho, but Inter signed a Brazilian of their own, grabbing Brazilian winger Mancini from Roma in what is coach Jose Mourinhoâs first major signing since he joined the club earlier this summer.
Roma, who finished second to Inter in Serie A last season, announced an initial agreement last week and the deal was finalized Wednesday after the player returned to Italy from his summer vacation. The speedy Mancini has moved over to Inter for $21 million, Inter officials said.
“I thank Roma for everything they have done for me, for how they have treated me and for the way in which they have behaved in the negotiations with Inter,â Mancini said today during a news conference.
The 27-year-old, who spent five years at Roma and had an uneasy relationship with coach Luciano Spalletti, is the second top player in two seasons to switch between the rivals.
Romania midfielder Cristian Chivu left Roma for Inter at the start of last season in an acrimonious move.
Inter were tracking Mancini even before Mourinhoâs arrival and his signing now makes it less likely they will bid for Portoâs Ricardo Quaresma.
Inter, however, is still interested in Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard.
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.