Inter are in advanced talks with Flamengo over the permanent sale of striker Gabriel Barbosa, according to Sky Sport.

The clubs are thought to be ‘very close’ to an agreement, which will see the striker move for a fee just below €18 million.

Inter held talks with Gabigol’s agents on Wednesday which helped them make further progress with the Brazilian club.

As part of the deal, the Nerazzurri will be due an unspecified percentage of any future transfer fee Flamengo receive for the 22-year-old.

Gabigol flopped during his one season in Italy after joining Inter in a €30 million deal from Santos.

The striker found the net just once in nine appearance before scoring once in six matches on loan at Benfica.

He has since kick-started his career by returning to Brazil, scoring 20 goals in 47 appearances for Santos last year.

Flamengo have enjoyed 16 goals in 20 matches in all competitions in 2019 and are ready to make Barbosa’s loan move permanent.