Inter have not discarded the idea of appointing Massimiliano Allegri as head coach, according to a report in the Italian media today.

La Repubblica’s print edition claimed the former Juventus boss would still be of interest to the Nerazzurri if Antonio Conte left at the end of the season.

Allegri is also in contention to return to Juventus if the Bianconeri decide to dismiss Andrea Pirlo, whose job is under scrutiny after a poor first season in charge.

He was heavily linked with the Inter job last summer when Conte seemed to be on the brink of leaving, before rebuilding his bridges with Beppe Marotta and owners Suning.

Conte is set for crunch talks with Inter president Steven Zhang in the next few weeks, which will clarify Suning’s plans ahead of next season.

Zhang is expected to return to Milan on Thursday and will visit Inter’s players and staff at Appiano Gentile before they travel to play Crotone at the weekend.