Inter Milan rival Manchester United for Nemanja Matic

Inter Milan have reportedly joined Manchester United in the race to seal the transfer of Nemanja Matic by entering into talks over a £35million deal for the Chelsea midfielder.

The 28-year-old is seemingly not a key part of Antonio Conte’s plans for next season, with reports linking him with a move away from Stamford Bridge for much of the summer so far.

United have largely been listed as his main suitors up until now, with Jose Mourinho a fan of the player he signed from Benfica during his second stint as Chelsea manager.

The Blues, meanwhile, look set to bring in Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko as the Serbian’s replacement, and Inter are the latest to be on alert to his availability.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Nerazzuri have made an initial approach worth around £35m for Matic as they look to sign a top class defensive midfield player in this transfer window.

Roma star Radja Nainggolan, also linked with Chelsea and Manchester United this summer, is believed to be among their targets, but their rivals have been reluctant to sell the Belgian.

Matic may be a more realistic option for Inter if Chelsea do manage to secure the signing of Bakayoko, and the Premier League champions will surely be glad not to have to sell the player to a title rival.

However, Matic’s personal preference is said to be for a reunion with Mourinho at Old Trafford.