Inter track Argentine duo

Inter’s new coach Gian Piero Gasperini has stepped up his efforts to sign two Argentine players, namely Genoa’s Rodrigo Palacio and Ricky Alvarez who is also being courted by Arsenal.

Reports in Italy said that Gasperini wants to inject new blood into Inter’s squad and there will be a distinctly Argentine flavour to the Nerazzurri this season.

Genoa have already announced that they have opened talks with Inter for Palacio but the striker’s departure will only be sanctioned in part-exchange for Goran Pandev.

Another target is Velez Sarsfield attacking midfielder Alvarez. Roma and Palermo had been linked with a move for Alvarez but Arsenal are now in pole position to sign the Argentine.

Inter have reportedly joined the chase for Alvarez with an offer of €9.25m, including performance-related bonuses.

“I did meet with two Inter representatives and we need to see each other again soon, but I think there could be what’s required to complete the deal,” Velez president Fernando Raffaini was quoted as saying.

“Alvarez to Inter is certainly possible.”