Inter Milan 'preparing lucrative contract for Lionel Messi'

Inter Milan are reportedly determined to bring Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi to San Siro next summer.

Messi's existing deal at Camp Nou is due to expire in June 2021, and there has been speculation surrounding the Argentina international's future in recent weeks.

The 33-year-old was hugely critical of Barca in the aftermath of their 2-1 loss to Osasuna on July 16, and a recent report claimed that Inter were confident of pulling off a deal for the attacker next summer.

The Italian side's head coach Antonio Conte recently played down the rumours, while I Nerazzurri CEO Giuseppe Marotta has also quelled suggestions that a deal could take place.

However, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter are working on a potential move behind the scenes and are prepared to offer the South American a four-year contract worth €260m (£235m).

Messi has again been in excellent form for his Spanish club this season, scoring 30 times and providing 26 assists in 42 appearances in all competitions.