Manchester United target Joao Mario won't be leaving Inter Milan, says club director

United and Paris Saint-Germain have both been linked to the Portugal international, who has been dropped from Inter’s starting XI this season under manager Luciano Spalletti

Joao Mario in action for Inter Milan (Getty)

Inter Milan director Walter Sabatini has insisted the club have no desire to let Joao Mario leave in the January transfer window.

Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have both been linked to the Portugal international, who has been dropped from Inter’s starting XI this season under manager Luciano Spalletti.

Mario’s fall from favour has prompted speculation of a January exit, but Sabatini says the club want to keep hold of the 24-year-old defender.

“As with all those who have to earn their place at the World Cup, Joao has some issues with the lack of playing time," he told Sky Sport.

"We don’t want to lose him, so he and Luciano Spalletti will find common ground and they’ll work out what to do.

"He is our player and we want to keep him."

With Inter two points off the top spot in Serie A, Sabatini confirmed that the club expect to make squad investments during the January transfer window.

“We are in sync with the coach on the intention of making a few adjustments in January," he added.

“We are evaluating the situations for Ramires and Alex Teixeira, it is all yet to be defined.”