Inter Milan eye Palmeiras’ Club World Cup star Richard Rios

Inter Milan have enquired about the possibility of signing Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios.

The Colombian international’s performances in the Club World Cup have caught the attention of top European clubs, including Inter.

Rios has been instrumental in the Brazilian club’s unbeaten run. He provided the assist for Paulinho’s winner against Botafogo in the round of 16.

The 25-year-old has been a key cog in Palmeiras’ engine room, playing a pivotal role in the Brazilian Serie A title in 2023 and the Campeonato Paulista the following year.

He was also part of the Colombian team that finished as runners-up in the Copa America last year.

Rios has emerged as Inter’s latest target as a potential replacement for Hakan Calhanoglu.

The Turkish midfielder faces an uncertain future at the San Siro following his disagreements with captain Lautaro Martinez and president Beppe Marotta.

Galatasaray have tabled a lucrative offer for the 31-year-old, who is also keen on a move to his homeland.

Inter have placed a €40 million price tag on him and are planning to reinvest in a top-quality midfielder.

Rios combines physicality and excellent reading of the game to flourish in the defensive midfield role.

He is also an excellent progressive passer, has a wide passing range and possesses long-range shooting abilities.

The Colombian’s industrious nature and robustness make him a tailor-made option for Inter.

His stock will rise if he carries on his fine run of form in the Club World Cup, with Palmeiras facing Chelsea in the quarter-final.

The Nerazzurri need reinforcements in the centre of the park.

They have added Petar Sucic to their ranks in this transfer window, and the Croatian midfielder has shown promise at the Club World Cup.

Inter have lined up Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller and Atalanta’s Ederson as other midfield targets.