Inter director Beppe Marotta hints at interest in ‘Made in Italy’ Sassuolo starlets Gianluca Scamacca, Davide Frattesi and Giacomo Raspadori, while reiterating they will be ‘in the discussion’ should Paulo Dybala leave Juventus.
They face Empoli in the Coppa Italia Round of 16 at 20.00 GMT.
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“The Coppa Italia is an objective, because Inter must aim for the maximum in any competition they participate in,” Marotta told Sport Mediaset.
Sassuolo booked their spot in the quarter-final against Juventus, with starlets Scamacca, Frattesi and Raspadori known targets for the Nerazzurri in future.
“It’s natural that big clubs are looking carefully at the talents at Sassuolo, including Inter, and our staff all work together with the intent of reinforcing Inter as much as possible.
“Above all, we are looking out for the Made in Italy element of the transfer market, as that aspect is often overlooked, but Italian football is at the forefront.
“At the same time, we must recognise the qualities of the current squad that is doing so well under Simone Inzaghi. I think we are on the right track to create a real strong core of this team.”
Marotta had said over the weekend that Inter were keeping an eye on Dybala’s situation at Juventus, so he was asked outright if that means he’ll make an offer to sign the Argentine as a free agent.
“What I mean is that when a player of Dybala’s quality is close to the expiry of his contract, it’s only natural he will be linked with other big clubs.
“It is also right to recognise Inter have some excellent forwards who are performing well. The management must be very ambitious in seeking out players who can raise the bar. If we don’t achieve those objectives, it doesn’t matter, the attempt must still be made.
“That means we want to be there in the discussion, although as I said Inzaghi is very happy with the strikers at his disposal.”
Marotta’s contract is also due to expire in June, but he assures there will be no drama here.
“We don’t have agents, so we just need to exchange a glance and everything is understood. We are all happy with how things are going and wish to continue like this. Inter are a prestigious club and a contract extension is only natural, it will be announced at the right time.”
Antonio Conte, Romelu Lukaku and now Achraf Hakimi have all made comments suggesting they miss Inter after leaving over the summer, so what is it about the Nerazzurri that inspires this regret?
“I don’t know, evidently we are very happy at the present for Inter, who are in a spotlight suited to the prestige and history of the club.
“I’d say the appeal of Inter has returned in a very strong way for this glorious club. It makes us all very proud, the club, director, owners and fans.”