Inter join Sissoko race

After Juventus lined up a bid for the unsettled Liverpool star, now Inter plan to intercept with their own offer for Mohamed Sissoko.
The midfielder has hinted he would favour a January move away from the Premier League club after a falling out with Rafa Benitez and had already been in talks with Juve over the summer.

It is widely reported that Claudio Ranieri would like Sissoko to reinforce his squad as soon as possible and could include Jonathan Zebina as part of an exchange deal.

However, this morning the ‘Corriere dello Sport’ suggests that Inter are joining the race to sign the 22-year-old.

With Olivier Dacourt and Walter Samuel out for the rest of the season and Patrick Vieira, Luis Figo and Dejan Stankovic dealing with long-term injuries, new faces are needed in the middle of the park.

The Italian newspapers maintain Sissoko could be available for as little as £5m and, at that price, Fiorentina are also showing an interest.

“We have not decided anything yet, but it is likely we will sign someone over the January transfer window,” commented Inter boss Roberto Mancini.

“Before we make any moves, we have to evaluate the condition of the injured players and see how long it will take them to return.”

Much depends on Stankovic, as surgery for a recurring heel problem would keep him out for three months, but the training camp in Dubai seems to be working.

“So far his condition is one of the most positive aspects of this spell in Dubai. He appears to be getting better, we hope he can continue like this. We have also missed Vieira, a player of great international experience.”

The Nerazzurri’s other alternative is Atletico Madrid outcast Maniche, who was personally recommended by Figo.

“Would we sign Maniche? We have been tracking many players, we will see,” added Mancio.
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