Inter Milan's search for a new central midfielder has been well documented, with the club having been linked with a number of players over the past few weeks. Two that have recently emerged as Allan of Udinese and Giannelli Imbula of Marseille.

Both have attracted plenty of interest after solid campaigns in 2014-15, but the situation surrounding one of the duo is rather more startling altogether.

Allan prefers Inter?

Udinese sporting director Cristian Giaretta has confirmed to fcinternews.it that Allan is "pushing to join Inter" rather than SSC Napoli, something which might be of vital importance as negotiations progress.

The Brazilian midfielder has over 100 appearances for Udinese since joining in 2012, and his skill set would make him a decent addition to the Nerazzurri on paper. 

Youth exchange?

Garietta did go on to say that if Allan continues to push for his Inter move, then some players from the Inter Primavera could be coming the other way in a swap deal of sorts.

Cristiano described the youth system as "rich" and "full of interesting talents" and did admit that if needed, the could be "included in discussions."

The most likely to be sent the other way include Assane Gnourkouri, a central midfielder who managed to garner some first team minutes last season, and Gaston Camara, an exciting winger yet to fully break through.

Imbula causing a stir

Mancini may also be lining up a bid for Marseille midfielder Giannelli Imbula, a 22-year-old central midfielder.

Imbula has 60 appearances for Les Olympiens, scoring three time since joining in 2013, becoming an integral part of an exciting team that was unlucky to finish fourth last season.

A dynamic and mobile midfielder, he is undoubtedly another good young player that would add a lot to Inter's midfield.

According to reports in France, Inter opened negotiations with an €18million bid a few days ago, but Marseille are holding out for the €25million they believe he is worth.

It seemed Imbula was set for a move to Valencia, but yesterday it was announced that Valencia had secured the signing of Rodrigo Caio of Sao Paolo, something which may mean they no longer require Imbula.

Marseille are in no rush to sell, so it appears that a higher bid will be needed to prize away the young midfielder.