The Italian says that his former side had a deal in place with the forward and also believes that they can challenge for the title next season
Roberto Mancini has revealed how he regrets not signing Paulo Dybala for Inter after the club were beaten to the forward’s signature by Juventus.
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The Italian says that the Nerazzurri were close to a deal for the Argentine before he ultimately opted to leave Palermo for the Turin giants.
Mancini adds that the club could have offered more for Dybala, who joined Juventus for €32 million, although the fee could rise as high as €40m.
“Dybala has immense class; he is the big regret at Inter,” he told La Stampa. “They had a deal in hand. They could have offered more, however it was over with Juventus.”
Inter take on Juventus on Sunday with the hosts in good form, having won nine out of their last 10 matches in all competitions.
Mancini feels that, while Juventus will be crowned champions this season, his former club can challenge for the title next year.
“Inter is a team that is still improving but this is well-known,” he added. “This does not detract in any way from [Roberto] Gagliardini, who is a great player. He’s young and has quality.
“Juventus will win the league again this year but next year – thanks to the strength of Suning – Inter can really compete on par with them.”
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Mancini has also been linked with replacing Slaven Bilic at West Ham and he was asked why the club are struggling at home after moving into a new stadium over the summer.
“The new Olympic Stadium does not have the same atmosphere of Upton Park; there was a different atmosphere, more noise,” he observed.
“I noticed it myself a few days ago going to see the game against Manchester City. After three losses it had already been pointed out.”