Aquilani: 'I turned down Chelsea'

Roma's Alberto Aquilani has revealed that he turned down the opportunity to join Chelsea, when he was just 16-years-old.

In 2001, then Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri targeted the Italian youngster, but Aquilani chose to stay at the Stadio Olimpico.

It is also reported that Arsenal and Valencia both made £10m offers for the attacking midfielder during the summer, but Roma rejected the bids.

The 23-year-old is currently contracted until 2010 but could soon put pen-to-paper on an extension.

Aquilani expressed his content at currently playing for the Serie A side, and is hoping to lift some silverware this season.

"I am happy because I am playing regularly," Aquilani told Corriere della Sera. "It is a beautiful time to be playing for Roma, everyone wants to succeed, but I must still improve as a player.

"Our fans deserve the Scudetto, but it will be tough."

Source: Sporting Life