Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio has revealed that Joao Felix was offered to the Nerazzurri before his eventual move to AC Milan from Chelsea in January.

Felix, who struggled to cement his place at Chelsea, ended up signing for Milan, where he has already made an impact, featuring in all five games and scoring on his debut against Roma. However, Ausilio insists that Inter never actively pursued a move for the Portuguese forward.

“The rumours are mainly linked to the activities of agents, who naturally make phone calls when they need to move a player,” Ausilio stated.

“When you have an important player like Asensio or Joao Felix – this also serves as my response to those saying Inter had started negotiations for the Portuguese – it’s normal for the agent’s goal to be creating market opportunities.”

Ausilio explained that agents often attempt to generate interest in their clients by reaching out to clubs, but Inter had already finalised their attacking options.

“Agents, in their efforts to work and prove to their clients that they are actively seeking opportunities, may reach out to Inter, but we have always been clear with everyone. We have consistently stated that we were already set in attack.”

He further clarified that Inter would have only considered signing a forward if there had been any major departures.

“Had there been any departures, we would have considered what solutions the market could offer to complete the squad, always keeping in mind our clear strategy of having two players per position. Inter have been built in recent seasons to compete at the highest level.”

Felix’s move to Milan was one of the biggest transfers of the January window, and his performances so far suggest that he could play a key role in Stefano Pioli’s plans. While Chelsea opted to part ways with the Portuguese forward, it remains to be seen whether his stint in Serie A will reignite his career.