Inter could be preparing a summer swoop for Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel.
The 26-year-old Nigerian is valued at €15 million and coach Walter Mazzarri is said to be an admirer of Mikel, who he feels can be a highly effective performer playing in front of the defense.
According to a report in La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter owner Erick Thohir also sees Mikel as a key piece in returning the nerazzurri to their traditional place as Scudetto challengers.
However, the report claims that Chelsea are looking to bring in Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho as a replacement first. The 21-year-old Carvalho is also a reported target of Manchester United.
Mikel has fallen down the pecking order somewhat in London, starting only nine Premier League games this season. He has made 29 total appearances in all competitions for Chelsea this season, scoring two goals.
