Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio has dismissed the recent speculation linking the club with a move for Lionel Messi. The Argentina international recently handed a shock transfer request at Barcelona and reports have claimed that the Nerazzurri could make an approach to sign him, suppose he is available in the transfer market.

However, Ausilio has ruled out the chances and indicated that the club don’t have the resources to pursue the six-time Ballon d’Or winner, he told Sky Sport: “I don’t know where some ideas can come from. No coach, no president wouldn’t want Messi in their team. But the reality is very different. Our reality is a sensible transfer market.”

The Nerazzurri finished the Serie A season in the second spot behind Juventus and that was their best result in nine years. However, they ended their campaign on a disappointing note as they were beaten by Sevilla in the Europa League final. Hence, the club are still awaiting their first major trophy since 2011 and it remains to be seen whether they can return stronger next term.

The San Siro giants have clearly mentioned that they have no intention of offloading their prized assets and Ausilio recently ruled out the departure of Lautaro Martinez. The Argentine was fancied to link up with Barcelona earlier this summer, but the Catalan giants decided against triggering the £102m release clause on his contract.

With the option having expired, Ausilio has indicated that the marksman will stay put with the club next term. Inter begin their league campaign with an away game to newly-promoted Benevento. Benevento were relegated from the top-flight without much of a fight last time around, but they are bound to perform much better under manager Filippo Inzaghi. They have already made a number of signings and the purchase of experienced centre-back Kamil Glik from AS Monaco stands out.