Inter want to sign defender Francesco Acerbi on a permanent deal after his loan spell from Lazio expires at the end of the season, but have no intention of paying the full €4 million purchase clause to do so.

This according to today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, who report that the Nerazzurri will try and negotiate a lower fee with the Biancocelesti.

Acerbi’s performances since arriving at Inter on a season-long loan from Lazio at the end of the summer transfer window have completely convinced the Nerazzurri.

The 34-year-old has become a regular starter at the heart of the back three, and he is considered to be a completely reliable option in his position.

There is a €4 million purchase option in the loan deal that brought Acerbi to Inter from the Italian capital.

However, the Nerazzurri consider this to be too high, and will look for a discount to sign the defender permanently for next season and onwards.