Inter Milan are currently closer to signing Sassuolo midfielder Davide Frattesi than they are to bringing in Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews.

Inter are gearing up to make midfield reinforcements during this summer transfer window.

The imminent departure of Roberto Gagliardini on a free transfer as well as the possibility that Newcastle United target Marcelo Brozovic could leave mean that the Nerazzurri will be very keen to strengthen the team in central areas.

According to the Gazzetta, Inter want to make a high-quality signing in midfield. And the newspaper have a specific name in mind – young Sassuolo star Davide Frattesi.

The Gazzetta note that Inter believe that the 23-year-old could have a similar trajectory ahead of him to Nicolo Barella.

When Barella had joined from Cagliari in 2019 he was a highly-rated prospect, but far from being a truly top-quality midfielder. However, with each season he has become more and more important for the Nerazzurri.

Inter believe that Frattesi has similar potential. Moreover, adding to the Italian core of the team is also a priority for the Nerazzurri.

Whilst the 23-year-old will not come cheap, Inter believe they can tempt Sassuolo with a player-plus-cash offer for Frattesi.

The Gazzetta report that the Neroverdi are seriously interested in both Inter midfielder Giovanni Fabbian and striker Samuele Mulattieri.

Frattesi Within Reach For Inter Milan, Milinkovic-Savic Less So

According to the Gazzetta, Lazio star Milinkovic-Savic is more of a dream out of reach for Inter.

The Nerazzurri’s admiration for the Serbian international is hardly a secret. Nerazzurri CEO Beppe Marotta has long been an admirer, whilst coach Simone Inzaghi would enjoy a reunion with the Biancocelesti man.

However, the financial side of the deal would make it unrealistic for the Nerazzurri.

Even though Lazio will be pressured into selling Milinkovic-Savic due his contract situation, they aren’t offering any discounts.