Despite his father and agent Mazinho admitting there has been no contact from Inter with regard to re-signing Rafinha, Tuttosport report that the Brazilian could well still find himself back at the Nerazzurri.

“Two goals in seventeen games and a shattering applause from San Siro, sparked a will to keep Rafinha but instead the negotiations have stagnated, after the final decision from Barcelona to not renew the loan. However, this does not mean it is the end, because at least one midfielder is expected to leave Inter meaning Inter could go back after the Brazilian”.

Inter always seemed far more hopeful about bringing Rafinha back in comparison to Cancelo. The Portuguese player, was owned by Valencia who are in deep financial trouble and refused any suggestions of a new loan or straight swap with Kondogbia. However, Barcelona seeming more likely to accept this formula continued to play hard ball given Rafinha’s success in Italy. Nainggolan is the logical replacement for Rafinha but depth never hurts and Rafinha’s passion for the club gives them a distinct advantage still.