Real Betis president Manuel Ruiz de Lopera has revealed that Chelsea failed with a bid for Spanish international Joaquin last year.
Ruiz de Lopera has now confirmed that Chelsea met with him last December – just before the transfer window opened – and offered €30 million for his services – but he turned down the bid.
“On December 30 I had a meeting in Madrid with representatives of Chelsea and they offered €30 million for Joaquin,” Ruiz de Lopera told AS.
“This was euro and not pesetas, but I rejected the proposal because I understood that this was not best for Betis.
“This shows my grace and how much trivialities do not bother me.”
“People say we are looking to sell Joaquin and make money.
“Why should we sell? So Betis can present a profit, who do we owe money to?
“During my time as president we have invested €186 million in footballers without considering the cost.
“Betis is among the 30 most profitable businesses in Andalusia according to a recent study.
“We have vouched for a number of deals including that of Assuncao from Roma, and Fernando and Tote. ”
