- Chelsea transfer target Edin Dzeko has broken his silence on January speculation
- The Roma striker admits there were talks over a move to Stamford Bridge
- However, Dzeko now suggests he was keen to continue living in Rome
- READ MORE: Antonio Conte delivers clear message on Chelsea future amid speculation of Italy return
Roma striker Edin Dzeko has finally broken his silence on January transfer window speculation linking him with a move to Chelsea.
The Bosnia international looked all set to complete a move to Stamford Bridge, though it seems that while Roma and Chelsea had agreed on a deal, the player himself was yet to fully give his approval at any point, according to Calciomercato.
Dzeko could have been a fine signing for Chelsea to solve their issues up front, having impressed since leaving Manchester City for Roma a few years ago.
Despite never quite being a regular and struggling for consistency during his time with City, Dzeko now looks one of the most lethal centre-forwards in Europe with a fine record of 62 goals in 118 games in his time in Italy.
Chelsea ended up sealing a deadline day swoop for Olivier Giroud from Arsenal instead, but Dzeko has at least offered some explanation as to why his switch to west London never materialised.
In an interview with Bosnian outlet Klix, as translated by talkSPORT, the 31-year-old suggested he’s attached to living in Rome after such a positive experience since moving from City.
‘It’s true that negotiations were being conducted, and that’s all I can say on the subject,’ he said.
‘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.
‘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.’