[quote author=peekay link=topic=40305.msg1115175#msg1115175 date=1275936726]
Inter's new era under Rafa Benitez will start with a bid for Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Benitez had a long conversation with Inter's technical director Marco Branca yesterday and is expected to iron out the terms of his contract today.
During that conversation, they reportedly spoke about Inter's transfer strategy this summer, which looks almost certain to include a bid for Mascherano.
The Nerazzurri have been looking to bulk up in midfield, but only managed to sign McDonald Mariga in January as a future prospect.
Mascherano is being valued at around €25m and Inter hope to persuade Liverpool into parting with him by offering Sulley Muntari in exchange plus a lump sum.
After Marko Arnautovic's departure, Inter are also looking for a new striker, prompting them to give serious consideration to a bid for Palermo's Edinson Cavani.
Branca is keen to offer Victor Obinna and Rene Krhin in exchange to get the 23-year-old's price down to a reasonable level.
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If Rafa was happy to pay £20m for Aquilani, then he can add on another €15m to that figure being mentioned for Mascher.