Inter risk losing out to Atletico Madrid in the race for Rodrigo de Paul, according to a leading Italian transfer expert.

Udinese captain De Paul is being repeatedly linked with a move to join the Nerazzurri, but Inter’s well-documented financial problems could prevent a deal going through.

They are far from the only club interested in signing the 27-year-old, who is reportedly valued at €40 million by Udinese.

Gianluca Di Marzio explained on his Instagram profile today (via FcInter1908.it): “De Paul could remain in Italy, yes, not least because Udinese haven’t sold him yet.

“Atletico Madrid have opened official talks with Udinese, they’re negotiating a fee, but that doesn’t mean Inter and AC Milan can’t get involved.

“De Paul is one of AC Milan’s main transfer targets.”

De Paul nearly joined Inter two summers ago, according to a report today, but the Nerazzurri changed their transfer plans after Antonio Conte replaced Luciano Spalletti as head coach.

The midfielder remains on their radar though, although Inter will clearly have their work cut out to get a deal done as things stand.

De Paul scored nine goals and provided 11 assists this season as Udinese secured a 14th-place finish in Serie A.