Inter Milan are eyeing Sampdoria midfielder Angelo Palombo.

Sky Italia says Inter are considering Palombo as an alternative to No1 midfield target Javier Mascherano, of Liverpool.

Inter chief Marco Branca will this week meet with Palombo's agents to lay the groundwork for a deal.

The approach will prove Juve GM Beppe Marotta's first serious test since his arrival from Sampdoria as Palombo is also a top Bianconeri target.