Nicolo Barella’s contract extension at Inter does not seem to be imminent, as per a report in the Italian media.

Calciomercato.com confirmed tonight that the Nerazzurri intend to reward the midfielder for his exceptional second season in Milan with a new deal.

However, Inter have not begun any talks with Barella as things stand, meaning a deal is unlikely to be finalised anytime soon.

The 24-year-old has made it abundantly clear he is worth the €40 million Inter agreed to pay Cagliari when they signed him in the summer of 2019, the report argued.

Barella’s confidence and consistency have made him an irreplaceable figure in midfield for Antonio Conte, having appeared in all 37 of Inter’s matches across all competitions this season.

He has scored three goals for the Nerazzurri during the 2020-21 campaign, providing 10 assists.

Reports in Italy recently have suggested Barella is in contention to become Inter’s next club captain after Samir Handanovic leaves or is relegated to the bench by a new goalkeeper.