Inter Milan have set the pace for the January transfer window by signing Xhedan Shaquiri from Bayern Munich.
Roberto Mancini’s return to the San Siro has been backed by hard cash as the club look to return to the Champions League via Serie A or by winning the Europa League.
Liverpool were considered to be favourites to sign Shaquiri, seen as a successor to Steven Gerrard, but the Swiss internationalist has no regrets about snubbing the Premiership to join up with Mancini.
“I had offers from England and Germany but my wish was to join Inter,” he stated. “Juventus was also an option but I wanted Inter.
“I spoke to Mancini on the phone and he explained the project to me and it really had an impact. The choice was very clear. Moreover, the idea to play in a new league fascinated me.”
Shaqiri added: “I wasn’t totally happy at Bayern. I didn’t have much playing time but I’ve learned a lot at Bayern and I will try to make the most of my time at Inter. I need to play consistently in order to prove how much I’m worth.
“I am hungry for success. I can’t wait to get started. I want to help Inter return to be at the top in Italy and in Europe. I hope that with this jersey I can return to win titles.”
Inter have also been linked with a move for Samuel Eto’o with Sampdoria also interested in the Everton striker. Lukas Podolski joined Inter from Arsenal as soon as the transfer window opened.
