The Portuguese's agent and an Atletico Madrid director arrived in Milan yesterday afternoon for the intensive negotiations.
"Our choice of focusing on Maniche came after a clarifying talk with Roberto Mancini," added Moratti.
"We have absolute faith in our squad, which is very strong, but Walter Samuel's injury has forced us to go back on to the transfer market."
The midfielder will sign on-loan to the end of the season with the view to a permanent £4 million deal.
