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Chelsea were interested in signing Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan for two different transfer windows, but the move never materialised.

The Belgium international is still a Roma player and will be up against Chelsea in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Antonio Conte was asked about missing out on the midfield powerhouse in his press conference this afternoon.

He answered: “It’s not right to speak about players of the other team. In the past, yes, we tried to buy him. But now Nainggolan is Roma’s player and I have great respect for him and for Roma, and also for my players.

“It’s not right to speak about him. He’s a really good player. For me, one of the best midfielders. But he’s an opponent.”