AC Milan are the main contenders to sign Inter target Rodrigo de Paul from Udinese, according to a report in Italy today.

L’Interista have revealed the Argentina midfielder is the Rossoneri’s first-choice target to replace Hakan Calhanoglu, who is unlikely to sign a new contract.

Inter have followed De Paul for some time but there is no sign of the Nerazzurri stepping up their pursuit for the 27-year-old at present.

AC Milan are playing for time because Udinese want €40 million to sell De Paul, which means it will be difficult for Stefano Pioli’s side to secure a deal.

Atletico Madrid are also in the running to sign De Paul and could attempt to snatch him from under AC Milan’s noses if they wait around too long.

If Calhanoglu were to officially leave AC Milan in the next few days, though, Inter’s city rivals would most likely step up their pursuit for Udinese’s captain.