Inter striker Lautaro Martinez is on the verge of signing a new contract at the club but his future remains in doubt, so the Nerazzurri monitor Memphis Depay.
According to FCInterNews.it, the Argentina international has been in lengthy discussions over an extension to his existing deal and a breakthrough is thought to be close, making it likely that he will sign a five-year deal at €5 million per season plus bonuses.
However, a new contract would not guarantee Martinez’s future at Inter amidst interest from Manchester City, Atletico Madrid, and Real Madrid.
The trio have long been admirers of the 23-year-old and an offer of €90m would be enough to convince Inter to accept, despite their desire to keep hold of him.
Should Martinez leave, the Nerazzurri will look for cost-effective options and have identified Lyon’s Depay as a prime target. The Netherlands international is out of contract this summer and would available on a free transfer, but Inter face competition from elsewhere in Europe.
Barcelona had appeared to be the favourites to sign the former Manchester United player but are yet to strike a deal, whilst Tottenham Hotspur have also entered the race for him.
Depay would demand a three-year contract worth €5m per season, with the option of a one-year extension, and would cost Inter the same as retaining Martinez.
However, it is thought that Barcelona, with coach and compatriot Ronald Koeman in place, remains the most likely destination for Depay.