Inter Milan are expecting to receive “important offers” from Arsenal and Manchester United “in the next few days” for Nicolo Barella, according to FCInterNews.it.

The Italian website claims that the two Premier League sides have already enquired about the Italian international, having contacted both Inter and his agent.

There is now an expectation that one or both of the Gunners and United will make a formal bid for Barella.

FCInterNews report that Newcastle have already had a €70m (£60m) offer knocked back, so other clubs would have to exceed that figure for Inter to sit down and start serious negotiations.

It has been suggested that the Serie A side value Barella between €80m (£68m) and €90m (£77m) so whether Arsenal are prepared to pay that much, we shall have to wait and see.

Arsenal could be considering Barella as an alternative to Declan Rice

There is a lot of uncertainty regarding the Gunners’ pursuit of the West Ham captain, following reports that Manchester City will enter the race to sign the midfielder.

For that reason, there is a possibility that Mikel Arteta’s side are scouring the market for possible alternatives if they do end up losing out on Rice.

It should be pointed out though that Barella isn’t really the same type of player as the England international. He is much more attack-minded and prefers to play in more advanced positions.

Barella is a quality player

There is no doubting the 26-year-old’s pedigree, though. He was a key figure for Italy when they won Euro 2020 and, at club level, Inter have relied on him as a key creative force.

Last season, Barella scored nine goals and provided 10 assists in 52 appearances for the Nerazzurri, helping them to win the Coppa Italia and reach the Champions League final. If he does end up at the Emirates, Arsenal will get a top-class footballer.