Inter’s bid to sign Romelu Lukaku from Manchester United received approval from one of the club’s former strikers today.

Ivan Zamorano scored in the Nerazzurri’s 1998 UEFA Cup final triumph and assured he was a big admirer of the Belgian.

United’s asking price is threatening to scupper Lukaku’s move but Antonio Conte has not given up on his top transfer target yet.

Zamorano told Tuttosport: “He would be very successful in Italy because he has strength, power, quality and a knack of scoring lots of goals. For Inter he would be a great signing.”

The Chilean also had words of encouragement for Lautaro Martinez, who will begin preseason training on Tuesday after his summer holidays were delayed.

“We mustn’t forget him either because he’s a player who’s improving,” Zamorano added.

“Lautaro has a great future ahead of him and I think this season could be decisive and positive for him.”

Diego Godin made his debut for Inter against Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday, having joined from Atletico Madrid on a free transfer.

Zamorano described the Uruguayan as a leader and backed him to help his former club make progress in Europe.

“He’s the right man for Inter because he’s a crucial presence in the dressing room as well as on the pitch,” he explained.

“His international experience will be decisive for Inter when they play in the Champions League.”

Inter have put in two impressive performances in their recent friendlies with Juventus and PSG, drawing both matches in normal time.

Zamorano was confident Conte could lead the Nerazzurri to a title challenge this year, although he admitted they weren’t the only club who could fight Juventus.

“I liked the decision to appoint him because he can give Inter something extra in terms of character and tactical discipline,” he concluded.

“His teams always play good football and they’ll give opponents a run for their money.

“Inter’s management are putting a good team together and I’m very confident.”