Vice-President Javier Zanetti reassured Mauro Icardi is “the captain and reference point for Inter” despite transfer rumours.
The Argentina legend was at an event marking a new partnership with MasterCard and naturally was asked about the status of star striker Icardi amid links with Juventus, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Chelsea.
“It’s disappointing he’s not going to the World Cup, as he has proved he fits in with the Argentina squad,” Zanetti told reporters.
Vice-President Javier Zanetti reassured Mauro Icardi is “the captain and reference point for Inter” despite transfer rumours.
The Argentina legend was at an event marking a new partnership with MasterCard and naturally was asked about the status of star striker Icardi amid links with Juventus, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Chelsea.
“It’s disappointing he’s not going to the World Cup, as he has proved he fits in with the Argentina squad,” Zanetti told reporters.
“When you have a champion like him in the team, it’s only normal to receive many offers, but Mauro is the captain and a reference point for Inter.
“We are happy to have him here and he is happy to be with us. We are not worried by transfer speculation, because he manifested his desire to remain and we in the Champions League, so wish to continue together.
“Every time he steps on to the field, he shows how much he cares about Inter.”
The Nerazzurri have already signed a massive addition for next season, as Lautaro Martinez arrives for €25m from Racing Club.
“He is a promising young player who has done very well in Argentina. However, playing in Italy is not simple. He is only 20 years old and we must put him in the best condition to perform,” added Zanetti.
“Martinez can play as a centre-forward or out wide, he’s good at taking men on, helps the team off the ball and has a lot of character.”
Inter had Rafinha and Joao Cancelo on loan, but are trying to renegotiate the options to buy from Barcelona and Valencia.
“They have both been very happy at Inter, just look at Rafinha’s tears against Sassuolo, showing he knows immediately what it means to wear the Inter jersey. These are difficult negotiations and it would be a pity not to see them in at Inter again, but we must wait, as there is still time.”