Revealed: Arsenal Legend Recalls When He Nearly Joined Inter Milan Before Deal Collapsed | OneFootball

Former Arsenal and England defender Sol Campbell has revealed that he came very close to joining Inter Milan, even visiting Appiano Gentile before the transfer ultimately fell through.

Speaking to Sportitalia, via FCInter1908, the former centre-back recalled how advanced talks had become and praised Inter’s training facilities at the time, describing them in vivid terms.

“I was really very close to Inter,” Campbell said.

“The training centre looked like a Roman garden – it was beautiful, incredible.

“Appiano seemed like something out of the Roman Empire, the most stunning place I’d ever seen.”

Campbell explained that the deal never materialised, though not due to financial reasons.

“It wasn’t about money,” he clarified.

“I went to Pinetina, but soon after Ronaldo left Inter. I thought the facilities needed to match the club’s quality inside and out – Milan’s methods at that time were more advanced in physical preparation.

“Then Recoba was suspended, Ronaldo had gone, so in the end it didn’t happen. But yes, I was very close.”

Campbell Reflects On Transfer ‘Almost’ And Inter Milan Vs Arsenal Champions League Clash

PARIS, FRANCE – MAY 06: Inter Milan striker Ronaldo celebrates after victory in the 1998 UEFA Cup Final between Inter Milan and Lazio at Parc des Princess on May 6th, 1998 in Paris, France. (Photo by Ben Radford/Allsport/Getty Images/Hulton Archive)

The 50-year-old went on to reflect fondly on his near move, suggesting that Inter have since evolved significantly both structurally and professionally.

Campbell also looked ahead to Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League clash against Inter at San Siro on January 20, advising his former club to play with courage in a historic setting.

“Arsenal must be brave and take their chances,” he said.