Inter have opened talks with Sporting CP over a deal to sell Joao Mario, according to a report in the Portuguese media today.

As per Record (via FcInter1908.it), the two clubs began speaking in the past few days about the midfielder’s future, following his season-long loan in the Liga NOS.

Joao Mario is eager to stay with Sporting CP, having helped Ruben Amorim’s side win their first league title since way back in 2002.

Everyone involved in negotiations is keen to secure a deal quickly, with economic conditions that benefit all parties.

Inter signed Joao Mario in a €40 million deal back in the summer of 2016, shortly after the arrival of Suning as the club’s new owners.

The midfielder never settled properly in Serie A and eventually joined West Ham United on loan in 2018, before a spell with Lokomotiv Moscow last season.

Joao Mario rejoined Sporting CP 12 months ago and made 34 appearances this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists in all competitions.