Inter could look to sign striker Andrea Petagna from Napoli as a backup for Romelu Lukaku, with the club still looking for a reliable deputy to the Belgian.
This according to Italian news outlet FCInterNews, who report that the 25-year-old’s name came up during discussions between Inter directors and Italian agent Beppe Riso yesterday, with Petagna represented by Riso.
A backup center-forward for Lukaku is thought to be an area that the Nerazzurri will look to target in the transfer window, with the likes of Sebastiano Esposito and Andrea Pinamonti failing to make the role their own.
Petagna could be brought in to fill the position, with the Italian having Serie A experience with the likes of Atalanta, SPAL, and Napoli which shows that he could be a reliable option.
The player is currently at Napoli, where he could see his opportunities limited by the presence of Victor Osimhen and Dries Mertens in the center-forward position, with new Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti’s tactical vision for the squad remaining to be seen.
Should he seek a move to play more regularly he may consider a move to Inter where he could be used as a deputy for Lukaku when the Belgian is injured or in need of a rest.
Napoli however, would likely be reluctant to sell to and strengthen a direct rival in the top places of the Serie A table, and Inter are unlikely to make a large financial offer for the player.
Accordingly, the likelier possibilities would be the exchange of one of Matias Vecino or Roberto Gagliardi for Petagna, with both midfielders thought to be allowed to leave for the right offer.
Spalletti has worked with both during his time at Inter and could want a reunion, while Inter may see a sacrifice in midfield as worthwhile should it allow them to strengthen in attacking positions.