Inter are ready to make an approach for Roma centre-back Chris Smalling as they seek a replacement for Stefan De Vrij.
As reported in today’s newspaper edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Englishman is approaching the end of his contract with the Giallorossi and is yet to commit his future to the club, paving the way for Inter to swoop.
Smalling has an option to trigger an extension in his Roma contract and the capital club are hopeful that he will do so, but in the meantime his agent has been seeking alternatives and has found a willing suitor in Inter.
The Nerazzurri are bracing themselves for the loss of Milan Skriniar on a free transfer, but see Smalling as a direct replacement for De Vrij, with a view to playing him in the middle of a three-man defence.
De Vrij is also out of contract this summer and whilst Inter hope to secure a new deal for him, it is far from certain.
Inter would be willing to offer Smalling a two-year contract worth €3.5 million per year, whilst bonuses could take that up to €4m.