Inter Milan insist star midfielder Wesley Sneijder is not going anywhere, dousing speculation that the Dutchman is on his way to Manchester United.
Sniejder is currently in Beijing with his club ahead of this weekend’s Italian Super Cup against city rivals AC Milan.
But it has been reported that the match could be Sneijder’s last for Inter after United made a formal offer to the playmaker, who is wanted as a replacement for the now-retired Paul Scholes.
Speculation suggests that the terms of United’s offer would involve a salary pay-cut for the 27-year-old, while negotiations are ongoing with Inter as the Italian club seek a transfer fee of at least £30million.
But Inter’s chief executive officer, Ernesto Paolilli, told the club’s official website: “Sneijder is here and he’s an important part of our team.
“Not so much of what is read in the papers is the truth. As for Sneijder, there is a complete intention that he will stay with us.”
Scholes has moved into a backroom role at United, but the Old Trafford legend has previously said that Sneijder would be a suitable successor to his role at the creative heart of midfield.
“Yes, Sneijder’s brilliant,” said Scholes.
“He’s been brilliant for the last year or so with Inter Milan and Holland. I don’t think it probably worked out as well as he would have liked at Real Madrid but he’s a top player.
“I’m sure there’s a lot of clubs who will be after him if he is available.”
There have also been reports that Inter may be willing to accept a player-plus-cash deal involving United striker Dimitar Berbatov.
