Inter Milan discussed the potential signing of Barcelona star Lionel Messi in order to fuel the dreams of supporters, according to Pirelli CEO Marco Tronchetti Provera.
Messi was linked with a move to the Serie A side last month but the boss of the club's main sponsor has denied the link, insisting Inter were never close to signing Messi. While the Argentina international is unlikely to swap the Nou Camp for the San Siro, Provera remains confident Inter can attract some of the world's best footballers in the next few years.
"Messi was a provocation to stimulate the club, to fuel dreams," Tronchetti Provera said to Gr Parlamento, as quoted byFour Four Two.
"Suning have shown great seriousness. They have assumed responsibility of the team and their interest in football and Inter can be seen.
"They know where to take the club. You can see that they want Inter to be back among the biggest clubs in the world and they are on the right track.
"Top players are already there, although in the future, as a fan, I can always hope for the best players.
"Stefano Pioli has overseen a big change in recent weeks. He is doing an extraordinary job and proving to be very capable.
"Do I miss our champions of the past? There are many players that remain in my heart, but Inter are a top team again. There are no regrets but only hopes for the future."
Inter are currently fourth in Serie A and face a trip to Bologna on Sunday in their next league fixture.