Exclusive: Inter rivals Barcelona for Brazil star
Our sources tell us that the Santos midfielder is liked by the Nerazzurri, with sporting director Piero Ausilio and technical co-ordinator Walter Sabatini approving the playmaker for the club’s future project.
Lima, 27, is also liked by Everton and Barcelona, and has scored 15 goals since he joined Santos from Internacional. An appreciated Brazilian international, he could be the Number 10 the Nerazzurri need behind the strikers. His deal expires in December this year, and will be available on a free in January.
Barcelona were negotiating for him, and looked to have sealed the deal, but things were nowhere near as smooth as imagined, as his agent confirmed.
“I’ve not received any official [offer] yet,” he told Mundo Deportivo, “I’m only reading and finding things out through the press.
“Santos offered Lucas a marvellous opportunity to renew his contract. But I’m travelling next week to meet an Italian team, while other clubs are also looking for Lucas.
“Lucas will only be free in January”.
CM Staff, adapted by @EdoDalmonte