MEHDI TAREMI MOVES TO TOP OF INTER MILAN’S WISHLIST

Inter Milan have directed their attention towards FC Porto striker Mehdi Taremi in their quest to land a new centre-forward this summer.

Their striker search has been fruitless, with the Italian giants regularly forced back to the drawing board after missing out on multiple targets.

Romelu Lukaku appeared to be the priority target, but the Nerazzurri pulled the plug on their pursuit after learning that the Belgian striker wants to join fierce rivals Juventus.

Inter turned their attention towards Gianluca Scamacca, and when a deal appeared to be on the cards, Atalanta snatched the West Ham United striker.

They have been working on a deal for Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, but the negotiations are proving to be strenuous due to the Gunners’ high valuation.

Inter face competition from Ligue 1 giants Monaco, who have accelerated their pursuit of the United States striker lately.

Monaco have seen a bid worth €40 million declined by the north Londoners, but they are planning to submit a new one soon.

Taremi’s name is gaining ground at Inter, who have initiated contact with Porto to enquire about his availability, claims Sky Sport Italia.

The Iranian international was linked with a move to arch-rivals AC Milan, but it didn’t get off the ground after they signed Noah Okafor from RB Salzburg.

Tottenham Hotspur have also been credited with an interest in Taremi as a potential replacement for Harry Kane.

However, a deal looks unlikely, with the Three Lions international leaning towards staying with the Lilywhites despite interest from Bayern Munich.

Inter would have to fork out €30 million for Taremi, whose contract with the Portuguese giants expires in 2024.

The 31-year-old has been the best striker in the Portuguese top flight over the last few seasons, netting 80 goals in 147 appearances for Porto.

His assist numbers (49) also show his well-roundedness.