Inter Milan are stepping up their interest in Atletico Madrid midfielder Mario Suarez.
Inter coach Roberto Mancini is in the market for a new defensive midfielder and contact has been made with Suarez's camp.
Mancini's new No2, Sylvinho, is in Spain today, having flown into Barcelona for Atletico's clash at Barca.
The player's agent, Manuel Quillon, said last week: "In Italy there are three or four teams interested, including Inter, but in England he has been sought after by another two clubs.
"Are there negotiations going on between Inter and Atletico Madrid? Inter are certainly interested, but I can't say anything more at this moment."