The statement from Ganso's agent has undoubtedly pleased Inter Milan greatly, symbolizing that they still have a considerable chance in the battle for Ganso. In the coming few seasons, Serie A will likely be a two-horse race between the Milanese giants. Inter Milan, who wish to continue the era of blue and black dominance, cannot afford to sit idly by as their city rivals strengthen their squad like they did last summer. Competition in the transfer market is fundamental.
There is still a long way to go until the summer transfer window, and it is indeed unreliable to draw conclusions about transfers at this stage. As Ibrahimovic said, the football world can undergo earth-shattering changes within 24 hours. Just like how the media were previously saying AC Milan had basically secured Ganso, with only price negotiations left with Santos. However, yesterday Ganso's agent came out to deny these claims: "The media keeps spreading false news, saying we're almost reaching an agreement with AC Milan. That's not true. To date, I've only been in contact with Santos to discuss extending the contract until 2015."
However, yesterday's edition of 'Gazzetta dello Sport' stated that Ganso is not the only target Inter Milan has in Brazil. At the recent Under-20 Youth Championship in Peru, the 19-year-old midfielder Rodrigues Mura da Silva, currently playing for Sao Paulo, shone brightly, catching the attention of Inter Milan scouts present at the scene. Italian fans are no strangers to this talented star; the media once referred to Da Silva by the nickname 'Marcelinho.' However, he is now more commonly known as Lucas. Regardless of what he is called, Lucas' talent is undeniable. He is an unconventional Brazilian No. 10 player who does not take pleasure in showcasing his individual technical skills on the field. On the contrary, Lucas stands out for his physicality and tactical discipline. The genius from Sao Paulo possesses excellent vision and long-passing ability, his shooting power and accuracy are exceptional, and he excels at making sudden runs into the penalty area to score. Like Kaka, this not-so-traditional Brazilian attacking midfielder may find it easier to adapt to the high-paced, high-intensity European football scene.
In Germany, reports of Inter Milan's pursuit of Marco Reus have also been confirmed. However, 'Bild' reported yesterday that Inter Milan must speed up negotiations as they are feeling pressure from Manchester United. There are rumors that the Red Devils are ready to offer 15 million euros to buy out Reus' contract clause, which exceeds the amount stipulated in his contract, making it hard for Dortmund to refuse. The Nerazzurri must find a way to reach an agreement with Dortmund before Manchester United, probably by raising their bid. Although Juventus is also competing for Reus, in the eyes of Italian media, the Old Lady at this moment might find it difficult to compete with Inter Milan and Manchester United.
Therefore, 'Gazzetta dello Sport' reports that Inter Milan has already started contacting Sao Paulo regarding Lucas' transfer. Of course, such a talented player will not have just one suitor in the form of Inter Milan. Previously, there were media reports suggesting AC Milan was also keeping an eye on Lucas, even claiming that Galliani had secured the priority purchase rights, but 'Gazzetta dello Sport' did not mention this. They believe that the main competitor for Inter Milan in Italy is Napoli. Outside of the Italian Peninsula, Manchester United and Manchester City are also pursuing Lucas, meaning that Inter Milan still faces fierce competition.