Inter Milan are intensifying their pursuit of Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva.

The Daily Mail says Inter are ready to step up their pursuit of Lucas and leave Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers with a big decision.

Roberto Mancini is a firm admirer of the Brazil midfielder and has made clear his ambition to take the 28-year-old to the San Siro during this transfer window to help Inter's pursuit of a Champions League place. The Italian club are expected to make a bid in the next 24 hours.

Had Inter shown their interest in the summer, Rodgers would not have stood in his way but the situation is not straightforward now as Lucas, who has two-and-a-half years left on his Anfield contract, has been a key figure in helping stabilise Liverpool's results.