Inter will not make progress in Europe next season unless they secure two key signings, according to a leading Italian journalist today.

The Nerazzurri are on the verge of securing the club’s 19th league title, which could become official as early as Sunday if they beat Crotone and Atalanta don’t win at Sassuolo.

Mario Sconcerti does not believe Antonio Conte’s side are ready to make steps in the Champions League though, following this year’s disappointing group stage exit.

“I don’t think Inter can reach the semi-finals,” Sconcerti told TMW Radio (via FcInterNews.it).

“They’d need another Achraf Hakimi to play on the left wing and a play-maker in midfield.

“If you got those players, you’d make a big step forwards.

“Otherwise, I think that aside from Romelu Lukaku the real world-class player in the team is Lautaro Martinez, who is getting better and better.

“If I were Chelsea I’d sign him and not Lukaku.”

Sconcerti also offered his views on Inter’s corporate problems, with the Nerazzurri reportedly set to secure a loan deal worth around €250 million from Bain Capital.

Club president Steven Zhang returned to Milan yesterday after a six-month absence and Sconcerti believes the future does not look particularly bright for Inter’s owners Suning.

“I think the debt Zhang has now at Inter is not very sustainable,” he warned.

“When the debt reaches a certain level it’s difficult to take a step back; let’s see what happens.”

Zhang is expected to meet Conte and Inter’s directors in the coming weeks to provide clarity over Suning’s plans for the club.