Samuel wants Italy exit

Roma defender Walter Samuel has revealed he could not play for another Italian club if he leaves the Stadio Olimpico.

The highly-rated centre back could leave Roma in the summer, with the club considering cashing-in on him to ease their financial woes.

Chelsea and Real Madrid have been strongly linked with the Argentine international and Samuel admits he could not imagine playing for another Italian side if he does leave Roma.

"The idea of leaving Roma is something that hurts me," said Samuel.

"But if I really do have to go then I will ask not to be sold to an Italian side.

"I'm not saying this because I'm curious about trying a new brand of football. It is primarily because I think it would be too hard for me.

"I think it would be impossible for me to play at the Stadio Olimpico in front of the Roma fans wearing a Milan, Inter or Juventus shirt."

Samuel's comments are sure to encourage Chelsea and Real Madrid and they could make their move for the classy defender in the summer.