Radja Nainggolan was on Chelsea’s radar, admits Antonio Conte. (Getty Images)

Antonio Conte admits he tried to sign Radja Nainggolan for Chelsea and believes the Roma midfielder is one of the best in the world.

In March, the Belgium international revealed that he discussed a move to Stamford Bridge with Conte but the Premier League champions refused to meet Roma’s £32 million asking price.

Nainggolan is set to face Chelsea in the Champions League on Wednesday evening, and before the match, Conte was asked about his interest in the 29-year-old.

‘I think its not right to speak about players of the other team,’ said the Chelsea manager.

Nainggolan has been hailed as one of the world’s best by Conte. (Reuters)

‘In the past, we tried to buy him but now Nainggolan is Roma’s player and I have great respect for him, great respect for Roma and great respect for my players. It’s not right to speak about him.

‘He’s a really good player, for me one of the best midfielders, but he’s an opponent.’

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