Inter monitor Henry, van Nistelrooy

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 Manchester United striker 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 on the club’s website, inter.it.

“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.”

Henry had an unsuccessful stint with Juventus in 1998/1999.

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 told www.gazzetta.it.

“The difference between Henry and Van Nistelrooy is I know Van Nistelrooy is not happy in Manchester.”