Inter won’t be held to Lucas ransom

Inter President Massimo Moratti has reiterated the club's interest in Sao Paolo star Lucas, but warned they will not be taken for a ride.

Lucas, an attacking midfielder renowned for his dynamic dribbling style, has been heavily linked both with the Nerazzurri and with Manchester United this summer.

Currently appearing for Brazil at the Olympics, he has already made 15 international appearances and over 50 for club side Sao Paulo at the tender age of 19.

Inter President Massimo Moratti has reiterated the club's interest in Sao Paolo star Lucas, but warned they will not be taken for a ride.

Lucas, an attacking midfielder renowned for his dynamic dribbling style, has been heavily linked both with the Nerazzurri and with Manchester United this summer.

Currently appearing for Brazil at the Olympics, he has already made 15 international appearances and over 50 for club side Sao Paulo at the tender age of 19.

It is understood that director Marco Branca has recently met with Sao Paulo officials to try to ratify terms of a potential transfer, against rumours that the Brazilians are trying to sign the player to an extended contract.

It is a situation that has prompted Inter’s warning to the club that they won’t be taken for a ride.

“As you know we are strongly interested in the guy,” Moratti confessed when cornered by Sky Sport Italia.

“But our interest does not compel us to accept every kind of condition imposed.”

Inter have recruited Rodrigo Palacio, Samir Handanovic, Matias Silvestre and Gaby Mudingayi during the transfer window, but a showpiece signing could yet arrive. The Serpenti commence their Europa League campaign against Hadjuk Split in Croatia this evening.