Inter’s vice-president Javier Zanetti played down reports Barcelona were preparing to sign Lautaro Martinez last night.

The striker was linked with a move to the Catalan giants in the Spanish media last week, who claimed Barca were poised to trigger his €110 million release clause.

Zanetti assured supporters Inter were not looking to sell the player, though, speaking to TyC Sports after Argentina’s Copa America defeat to Brazil.

“We’ve not received any offers,” Zanetti said.

“I hope Lautaro can keep playing like he has been doing because he’s an important player for us.

“I’m very happy because he did really well in his first season at Inter. It’s not easy and for someone who’s only 21 he showed a great strength of personality.”

Zanetti then responded to reports Lionel Messi had made an express request to Barcelona to sign Lautaro, who scored nine goals in his debut season with Inter.

“I have a good relationship with Leo, I’ll ask him to leave him with us a little longer…” he joked.