Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow have begun talks with Inter to extend Joao Mario’s stay in Russia to the end of this season, but don’t want to commit to purchasing the Portuguese midfielder, according to a report from Russian media outlet Metaratings.ru earlier today.
The report details how the 27-year-old Portuguese midfielder has been on loan with Lokomotiv Moscow this season but hasn’t fully impressed the Russian club in that time. They are not looking to permanently sign the player but do want to keep him until the end of the season.
Lokomotiv Moscow have been directly talking with Inter, the report continues, without the usage of intermediaries, hoping to extend Joao Mario’s stay in Russia to at least July. Inter’s negotiations are being led by sporting director Piero Ausilio. Mario has made 15 appearances across all competitions so far this season, for a total of 1287 minutes. In that time, he has scored one goal and provided four assists.
