Atalanta had made clear to Inter Milan that they won’t sell defender Rafael Toloi this summer unless it’s for a suitable offer.

This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, who report that the Nerazzurri have made their inquiry about signing the 32-year-old, and that La Dea have given them a “hands off” response.

Toloi has emerged among the names who Inter are monitoring as a possible last defensive signing of the summer transfer window.

The Nerazzurri have already made several signings during the window, including young defender Yann Bisseck – but one player conspicuously absent has been a replacement for Milan Skriniar.

The Slovakian’s departure has left a gaping hole in the Nerazzurri’s defensive options. The fact that Danilo D’Ambrosio has followed him out the exit door hasn’t helped.

Inter had looked close to signing Cesar Azpilicueta from Chelsea to replace Skriniar.

However, that deal fell through at the eleventh hour as the Spaniard chose to instead join Atletico Madrid.

So in the past few weeks, Inter have been looking at other options to replace Skriniar. And Toloi is one name who has come onto their radar.

Atalanta Tell Inter Milan That Rafael Toloi Won’t Come Cheap

According to the Gazzetta, Inter have already contacted Atalanta to ask about Toloi’s availability.

And the message from the Bergamasque club was clear – only for the right price.

Despite the fact that Toloi’s contract expires at the end of next June, La Dea aren’t going to let their captain leave for a cut-price fee, the Gazzetta reports.

Therefore, a lot could depend on Inter’s willingness to invest in a deal. If the Nerazzurri can offer Atalanta a significant transfer fee for Toloi, that may test their Lombard rivals’ resolve.

But if Inter are expecting to quickly wrap up a low-cost deal for the 32-year-old Italian international, Atalanta have rebuffed them.

In any event, the Gazzetta reports, Inter are also focusing on several other priorities.

The Nerazzurri must sign a striker and two goalkeepers before the end of the transfer window. One more midfielder will also likely have to come through the door.

Therefore, the Gazzetta reports, Inter’s pursuit of Toloi could come down to how much cash they have left over.