AS Roma striker, Edin Dzeko has finally opened up on why his transfer move to Chelsea failed.
The Bosnian international was close to joining the Premier league champions in January but has remained a Roma player.
The 31-year-old admits he was ‘flattered’ by interest from the Blues during the January transfer window.
Dzeko appeared to be closing in on a move to Stamford Bridge but failed to agree on personal terms with Chelsea and the move collapsed.
Speaking about his failed move to Chelsea for the first time, Dzeko told Bosnian outlet Klix: “It’s true that negotiations were being conducted, and that’s all I can say on the subject.
“There was a lot of speculation, as well as false and even funny claims. I was really flattered by the interest from Chelsea, a club I really respect and admire.
“In the past few weeks a lot of stories have circulated about me leaving Roma and yet I’m still here. In the end I’m happy to stay at Roma, because Rome has become my home and an indelible part of my life.
“From the first day they’ve accepted me in Rome in an unreal way and I will never forget that, I’m tied to this city by some of the happiest moments of my life.”
Dzeko added: “I felt the joy of fatherhood for the first time here when my little girl Una was born, and my son Dani was born here too. Roma is part of my life now, and it always will be.
“I believe we have many more beautiful moments ahead of us and that we’ll succeed in achieving our objectives together.
“Roma is my family and I’m happy to keep wearing the Lupi shirt.”
Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte identified Dzeko, a two-time title-winner with Manchester City, as a top target last month as he looked to bolster his attacking options.
Conte subsequently signed Olivier Giroud from Arsenal.
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