Nesta rejects Real switch

Alessandro Nesta has turned down a move to Real Madrid because he wants to spend the rest of his career with Lazio.

Real had hoped to strengthen their defence by making a swoop for Nesta. However, the Italian international believes there is no pressure on him to leave as Lazio have solved their recent financial problems by selling Juan Sebastian Veron and Pavel Nedved.

"I made a choice months ago. I signed a new five-year deal with Lazio because I love being here. With Nedved and Veron's departure, Lazio have no more problems."

"Therefore there is no reason for me to leave. We want to do well and I hope that Lazio will play a leading role this season."

"I believe that we are as strong as the rest of the other Scudetto competitors. I'd like to end my career with this club. But of course you never know what can happen in the future."

The captain of the biancocelesti added that the Lazio fans have no right to blame president Sergio Cragnotti for the club's recent plight.

"Sr. Cragnotti has literally taken us off the streets and turned Lazio into a great team. Our fans should be glad for the victories we have been able to achieve."

Rumours are circulating in Italy that Real had offered Lazio an astronomical $US 75million for Nesta but the player responded: "I'd like to see if anyone is really serious about paying such a huge figure for someone like me. I doubt it somehow."

Also slipping away from Real's grasp is Inter Milan defender Javier Zanetti, the right-back is ready to listen to an offer from Manchester United, who want the player to form part of their summer defensive overhaul.