Chivu to join Inter after protracted talks

Romania defender Cristian Chivu said yesterday he will join Inter after the Italian champions came to an agreement with Roma following weeks of talks.

Chivu, one of Serie A's top defenders last season, is set to move in a 15 million euro deal.

"I am going to Inter. It is a life choice," he told a news conference at Roma's training ground.

"I would like to be remembered as a good lad. I have spent four marvellous years here, full of satisfaction."

Inter had pulled out of negotiations earlier this month before an 18 million euro move to Real Madrid collapsed because of the 26-year-old's salary demands.

Barcelona had also expressed an interest in the player.

Inter finally went back in for the former Ajax player this week and have wrapped up a deal despite Chivu starting pre-season training with Roma.

Roma had already bought Brazil centre-back Juan from Bayer Leverkusen to replace Chivu, who is expected to partner Italy's Marco Materazzi in the centre of Inter's defence.