4 names on the table in 'Operation Lautaro'

The representatives of the Argentine, Lautaro Martínez, forward who has scored 16 goals for Inter Milan this year, are negotiating with Barcelona, according to the Italian sports press on Thursday.

Barcelona are decided on strengthening their attack with Lautaro for next season and for that reason they are starting an 'assault' on the Inter forward, according to the newspaper 'La Gazzetta dello Sport' on their cover.

"Lautaro shows his love for Inter, but his representatives negotiate with Barcelona. It will not be easy to withstand the pressure of the Catalans", the newspaper added.

On Wednesday, Lautaro Martínez published a series of images with his Inter goals and celebrations on social media, but in Italy, reports are increasing about the possibility of the Argentine forward going to Barca next season.

The forward is under contract at the club until 2023 with a release clause of 111 million euros, and Barca, in order to lower this sum, are willing to add a player as compensation.

According to the Italian press, Inter are interested in Antoine Griezmann, whose wage is, however, too high for Inter, or Arthur Melo, who would strengthen the centre of the Inter midfield. Marc Cucurella, who is shining this year as a Getafe wing-back, is another possibility. So could Carlos Aléña, on loan at Betis, All these beyond the interest that the Italian club has in Arturo Vidal, an old target.

Lautaro Martínez is one of the most followed players by the big teams in Europe after having a season as an unnegotiable in Antonio Conte's XI, with 16 goals in 31 matches.