Roma striker Edin Dzeko "flattered" by Chelsea interest

Roma striker Edin Dzeko has admitted that he was "flattered" by Chelsea's interest in signing him.

The former Manchester City forward was said to be a target for Antonio Conte, with reports claiming that the club were negotiating a double swoop with both Dzeko and Emerson Palmieri.

The latter arrived at Stamford Bridge before yesterday's transfer deadline, but Dzeko stayed at Roma.

"It's true negotiations were conducted and that's all I can say on the subject," the Bosnian told Klix. "There was a lot of speculation, falsehood and even some funny claims. I really was flattered by the interest from Chelsea, a club I respect and admire very much.

"For the past few weeks, a lot of stories have been told about my departure from Roma, and yet I'm still here. At the end of the day, I'm happy to stay at Roma because Rome has become my home and an indelible part of my life.

"I've had some of the happiest moments in my life in this city. I felt the joy of fatherhood for the first time when my daughter Una was born, and my son Dani was born in Rome, too.

"It's now a part of my life and it always will be. I believe there are many more beautiful moments ahead of us and that we'll succeed in achieving all our goals. It will be difficult, but we won't give up."

Instead of signing Dzeko, Chelsea secured an £18m capture of Olivier Giroud from Arsenal.