Inter are cautiously optimistic they can keep Antonio Conte at the club, according to a report in the Italian media today.

Gazzetta dello Sport’s print edition said Conte wanted to stay with the Nerazzurri and continue the job he started two summers ago.

There is no sign of a breakdown in relations between Conte and Inter, although everything is on hold until the much-awaited meeting with Steven Zhang and the club’s directors.

Conte wants reassurance and clarity on the club’s project before agreeing to remain as head coach for a third season.

Inter’s meeting could take place this week or alternatively just after Sunday’s final match of the season against Udinese, the Milan-based paper aded.

Conte and Zhang will not meet alone, the report added, because the pair will need Beppe Marotta, Alessandro Antonello and Piero Ausilio in attendance as well.

After meeting with Conte, Zhang will turn his attention back to the issue of Inter’s player salaries and hold individual meetings with squad members to discuss further deferrals.

Inter’s financial situation is set to receive a boost, with Oaktree Capital close to agreeing a €250 million financing deal (€200 million of which will go into the club’s accounts).