It seems Inter have also gotten involved in the hunt for Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez, who until now had only been linked with Milan and Paris Saint Germain.

The Nerazzurri’s captain Javier Zanetti spoke about his countryman to Inter Channel: “I know him, but lately I haven’t heard of him. We’re talking about a great champion, but this is the transfer market, there’s talk of many famous names but we have to concentrate on doing our part.

“Then, of course, we’d also be happy if someone came to help us, because it would be a sign to continue to do well.”

Zanetti also talked about two of his other countrymen, new arrivals Ricardo Alvarez and Mauro Zarate, who have both been struggling: “I talk a lot with them both. It was normal that Ricky would have some difficulties, especially at the start, since he comes from a difficult league. I think his latest performances were important, not just for him but for the whole team, and I think that will give him confidence. He can be important for us.

“As for Mauro, we know the qualities he has and I think the birth of his daughter, which he was really waiting for, could be an extra thing that might help from now until the end.”