Inter's Mancini hints at Emerson interest

Inter coach Roberto Mancini is considering a bid for out-of-favour Real Madrid midfielder Emerson.

The Brazilian, who followed coach Fabio Capello from Juventus to Madrid last year, has been told he does not figure in new Real boss Bernd Schuster's plans following Capello's sacking.

"Great players are always welcome at a team which is already very strong and that can improve," Mancini told reporters yesterday at the Serie A champions' pre-season training camp.

"We will see in the coming days but Emerson is a great player, one of the best in the world in his position."

Asked about a revival of the bid for Roma defender Cristian Chivu, Mancini said: "I don't know, we will see what happens. I honestly don't know."

Mancini added that the battle for this season's title would be between Inter, Milan, Roma and promoted Juventus.