Former Juventus CEO Giuseppe Marotta in talks to become new Inter chief

Former Juventus chief executive Giuseppe Marotta is in China to hold talks with Inter Milan owners Suning’s headquarters in Nanjing, China to hold meetings with Inter Milan majority shareholder Zhang Jindong and his son, Steven Zhang over a move to the San Siro. Zhang has succeeded Erick Thohlr as the president of the Nerazzurri at the end of last month.

Despite the arrival of the former Juventus CEO it is understood that Sporting Director, Piero Ausilio will retain his position at the club, while chief football operations officer Giovanni Gardini and managing director Alessandro Antonello will also keep their jobs. The 61-year-old was one of the architects of Juventus’ recent re-emergence as Italy’s dominant force, which has seen them rack up seven straight Serie A titles and four Italian Cups, and twice finish runners-up in the Champions League. Marotta is free to talk to other clubs after his contract with Juventus was terminated in October.

His impact in Turin led to speculation he could take up a similar position in England, with Premier League duo Manchester United and Arsenal believed to have been monitoring him. However, when asked about his future earlier this month, Marotta insisted he was keen to remain in Italy. “I will not go abroad. Italy represents the best, of sport and more. For my part there is the will to stay here. I intend to continue my business in this country.”

Marotta is keen to discuss the details of his proposed role at the club before putting pen to paper on a three-year contract. According to Corriere della Sera and Gazzetta dello Sports, Marotta wants to be clear that his future position will be different to that of Inter’s sporting director Piero Ausilio. A deal could be reached before Inter travel to the old lady on December 7. The Nerazzurri are currently 3^rd in the Serie A table.