Serie A giants Inter Milan and Juventus are strongly considering a move for Porto midfielder Otavio, claims the player’s agent.
Otavio was a standout performer for Porto last season, helping Sergio Conceicao’s side to the Portuguese Cup and League Cup titles.
Despite relinquishing their Primeira Liga crown to Benfica, having finished two points behind in second place, their domestic double still counts as a successful campaign for the Dragons.
Otavio played a prominent role in Porto’s double-winning campaign scoring seven times and setting up 13 in 44 appearances across all competitions.
It is understood Porto are not looking to cut ties with the Brazil-born midfielder, but his €40 million termination clause has caught the eye of several interested clubs.
Otavio’s agent Israel Oliveira is convinced there could be a bidding war in Italy for the Portugal international midfielder amid interest from several clubs in the country.
The agent confirmed that Inter and Juventus are among those vying for Otavio’s signature, but both clubs could struggle to trigger his release clause.
“I can say that Italy strongly wants the player, and the interest around him from your country continues to exist,” Olivera said (via Calciomercato).
“We are talking about a player who has shown his value and would be ready for any club. He would do very well in Italy. It’s who is raising the necessary funds to pay the 40 million requested by Porto. They want it badly.”
Olivera also confirmed that Otavio is not for sale, but Porto would be powerless to stop a transfer if any of the potential suitors trigger the player’s termination clause.
“I can confirm that Inter are among the clubs that want him,” he added. “I think Juventus will join the fight to have him. The player is not for sale – it should be noted. Either the clause is paid, or he stays at Porto.”
Inter have recently confirmed Davide Frattesi’s arrival from Sassuolo and have prioritised signing Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea on a permanent transfer.
Juventus are focusing on outgoing transfers as they look to raise enough cash to fund their transfer business. It remains to be seen if either club will move for Otavio this summer.
