Gabigol: Manchester United and Chelsea target insists moving to Inter his ‘first choice’
Gabriel Barbosa had been linked with a move to the Premier League after bursting onto the scene at Santos
GABRIEL BARBOSA has insisted a move to Internazionale was his 'first choice' - despite offers elsewhere.
Gabigol, as he's known, was linked with a move to Manchester United and Chelsea over the summer but moved to the Serie A club for around £25million.
The Brazilian, 20, has been dubbed the 'next Neymar' in Brazil after coming through at the same club, Santos, as the Barcelona superstar.
Barca and Juventus were also said to be interested in the forward.
After being unveiled in Italy, he said: "I’m very happy.
"It’s a very special day, it’s a pleasure to be a part of the history of a special club like this one. Forza Inter.
"Ronaldo? I don’t like comparisons. I’m Gabriel Barbosa, Inter are a great team and I want to write myself into the history of this club.
"This was always my first choice, even if I had other options. The project, the squad and the Coaching staff convinced me.
"I hope to win as much as possible in Serie A and in the other competitions.”
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Gabigol was then asked if he could play straight away, given his break after the Olympics.
"There was the Olympics and the Copa America, I’m a young lad but I need time to recover.
"I have a physiotherapist who travels with me, I have to be careful.
"Inter gave me time to rest, I’m in good shape."
Barbosa, who signed a five-year deal at Inter, scored 56 goals in 154 matches for Santos.