Real Madrid’s Jorge Valdano: Signing Kaka From Milan Was Easy, Benzema A Better Option Than Ibrahimovic

Real Madrid director Jorge Valdano claims signing Kaka from Milan was "easy", stirring up the rivalry ahead of next week's Champions League clash.

Kaka meets with his former team-mates in the Champions League on Wednesday night. Valdano has reflected on the stellar summer signing and has given his views on the game.

"It was easy taking Kaka from Milan because Florentino Perez and Adriano Galliani have a good relationship," Valdano told Il Corriere Dello Sport.

"Kaka is a sensible player and he will be very emotional."

Milan have not had the best of starts in Europe, contrary to Real Madrid, who are enjoying the view from the summit of their group. However, Valdano believes his side still have some way to climb against Milan.

"We have to be careful of Milan," he said. "I don't trust them as they have plenty of international experience. [Filippo] Inzaghi is extraordinary, but don't underestimate Raul."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was linked to Real Madrid before he joined Barcelona, as was Inter coach Jose Mourinho. But the Real director has set the record straight.

"Ibrahimovic? We never looked for him. We wanted Valencia's David Villa. When Los Che said 'no' we went for Karim Benzema instead. The Frenchman has more potential for the future compared to 'Ibra'," added Valdano.

"As for Mourinho, I deny any interest. Our choices were Arsene Wenger and Manuel Pellegrini."