Inter have ended their interest in Spal’s Mohamed Fares because they are impressed with Dalbert’s performances in preseason, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Brazilian seemed certain to leave the club this summer after two tremendously disappointing seasons, having joined from Nice in a €21 million deal.
However, his displays against the likes of Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Tottenham have persuaded Antonio Conte to reconsider his position.
“Conte has discovered Dalbert’s qualities during the first month of preseason and he has been struck,” the paper reported this morning.
“He has now become a strong contender to start at wing-back for Inter’s first few competitive matches this season.”
Dalbert struggled for game-time at left-back last year as Luciano Spalletti consistently preferred Kwadwo Asamoah, but with the latter only just back from his summer holidays the 25-year-old has a glorious chance to move up the pecking order.
He has shown a series of concerning defensive weaknesses whilst playing in a back four, but Conte’s 3-5-2 system is likely to be much more suited to his style of play.
Gazzetta added: “Dalbert’s qualities going forward could become very precious now he has an extra defender to protect him, especially when you consider how important quick changes of play have become under Conte.
“You can’t question his reliability in terms of running and crossing, at least.”
Dalbert made just 11 league appearances for Inter last season as they secured another fourth-place finish on the final day.