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Joao the man

Chelsea-target Joao Mario in Italy for Inter Milan medical on same day as Gabriel Barbosa

Portugal v Wales, Euro 2016 France, Semi Final. 6th July 2016 Picture By Richard Pelham. Joe Allena and Joao Mario

JOAO MARIO has arrived in Milan for a medical ahead of his proposed move to Inter.

The Portuguese midfielder was also a reported target for the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United.

 Joao Mario is in Milan for a medical ahead of £38.4million move to Inter
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Joao Mario is in Milan for a medical ahead of £38.4million move to InterCredit: LUSA

But looks set to the complete a hectic day for the Nerazzurri after Gabriel Barbosa arrived earlier.

A deal for Sporting Lisbon's Mario is expected to be completed for around £38.4million.

The 23-year-old featured in every game of Portugal's Euro 2016 triumph.

 Joao Mario in action against Jesse Lingard during 2015 European Under 21's Champs
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Joao Mario in action against Jesse Lingard during 2015 European Under 21's ChampsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd

Inter have not featured in the Champions League since 2012 and the new owners are keen to change that.

The Suning Group — headed by Eric Tohir — recently completed a deal to own nearly 70 per cent of the club.

So far this summer, they have brought in Ever Banega from Sevilla on a free transfer and Italy international, Antonio Candreva, from Lazio for £19m.

 Joao Mario in action for Portugal against Wales during Euro 2016 semi-final win
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Joao Mario in action for Portugal against Wales during Euro 2016 semi-final winCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
 Joao Mario and Eder celebrate as Portugal beat France to win Euro 2016
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Joao Mario and Eder celebrate as Portugal beat France to win Euro 2016Credit: Getty Images
 Inter Milan have also signed Antonio Candreva for £19million from Lazio
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Inter Milan have also signed Antonio Candreva for £19million from LazioCredit: Getty Images

New boss, Frank de Boer, is expected to bring Champions League football to the blue and black half of San Siro next season.

Inter were top at the midway point of the last campaign, but eventually finished in fourth place, behind Juventus, Napoli and Roma.

 Gabriel Barbosa arrives in Milan for a medical ahead of his move to Inter
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Gabriel Barbosa arrives in Milan for a medical ahead of his move to InterCredit: Twitter

With the champions buying their two nearest rivals’ best players, the final Champions League spot  could well be in the offing next season.

Inter started the season with a 2-0 defeat at Chievo.

AC Milan — who have also been sold this summer — will also be expected to challenge, but have so far only brought in Gianluca Lapadula.

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