Inter keep tabs on Henry but fancy Ruud as an easier target

INTER MILAN have opened the door for Thierry Henry to join them, should he decide he wants to leave Arsenal, but believe Ruud van Nistelrooy is a more attainable target.

Inter owner Massimo Moratti has also hinted the Serie A giants are interested in Man United’s van Nistelrooy with the Dutchman having lost his place in the club’s starting line-up to Louis Saha.

“I think the Frenchman is happy in London and Arsenal are preparing a contract extension for him,” Moratti said. “Hence, they have first choice.

“It would be a different situation if the player wanted to have another experience elsewhere. Henry is a player I enjoy watching.”

Henry’s current Arsenal deal expires in the summer of 2007 and he has been linked with Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Arsenal are hoping he will sign an extension. If he does not, clubs may offer Arsenal a transfer fee for the player before the end of next season.

“His buy-out clause is low.” Morrati said. “We wouldn’t take advantage of this as it wouldn’t be an honourable move. We don’t do this between big clubs.”

As for van Nistelrooy, United are adamant the 29-year-old will not be sold in the summer but Moratti believes he would be a more realistic target.

“Van Nistelrooy is a very good forward,” Moratti said. The difference between Henry and van Nistelrooy is I know van Nistelrooy is not happy in Manchester.”

Meanwhile AC Milan yesterday agreed a one-year contract extension with coach Carlo Ancelotti, to keep him at the club until 2008.

Milan have moved quickly to tie up their coach for another season after confirming this week that Real Madrid were interested in Ancelotti.

Ancelotti led Milan to the Champions League title and the Coppa Italia in the 2002-03 campaign and one year later, he steered them to their 14th Scudetto.

Milan reached the final of the Champions League last season but lost on penalties to Liverpool.

They are second in Serie A behind Juventus and they have qualified for the quarter-finals of the Champions League, where they will take on Lyon.

“Carlo Ancelotti will continue to coach AC Milan at least until June 30, 2008,” Milan said in an official announcement.

Several coaches have been linked with the Milan job this season as the club struggle to mount a serious challenge to Juve in the title race.

Former players Marco van Basten, who is the head coach of Holland, Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard and former Livorno boss Roberto Donadoni have all been mentioned as possible successors to Ancelotti.