Inter close to Lucas Leiva

I just wrote an article a couple of days ago about options in the midfield Inter was considering and while I listed a couple of names, Lucas Leiva wasn’t anywhere near it. How quickly things can change. Suddenly reports have emerged that Inter Milan has pretty much found an agreement with Liverpool to sign Lucas Leiva for the remainder of the season.

The Brazilian midfielder has seen limited playing time so far this season and as a result was apparently willing to accept a loan deal. Some reports state that the English club has already signed off on the move while others are saying Inter still need to make a final decision whether or not to pull the trigger. Either way it looks like barring a major change in plans by either party, he will be joining Inter for at least 6 months. It seems that the loan will include an option to purchase the 29 year old if he performs at an acceptable level.

I’m not wildly impressed with this signing but like I said in a comment in the last article I wrote, this is January. Top-class players aren’t going to be available and if Gary Medel is going to be placed at center-back in a back three upon his return (which looks very likely), then a replacement for him in midfield will be needed immediately. Lucas will be a fairly adequate signing that should help Pioli out until June when Suning can look to sign a better player.