Inter never had any plans to make a play for Lionel Messi's services this summer, according to Nerazzurri chairman Steven Zhang.
A few weeks ago Messi sent a fax to Barcelona requesting the termination of his contract in order to allow him to speak to other clubs.
Blaugrana officials refused, and insisted that Messi's €700m release clause would have to be triggered in order for him to leave the club.
The Argentine still claimed he could leave for free due to a previous clause, however, which alerted elite clubs around Europe that a transfer could be possible.
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The two places most mentioned as potential destinations were Inter and Manchester City, but it would appear the Serie A outfit were never in the running in the first place.
“Such an investment cannot be part of our project. At least not right now,” Zhang told Corriere della Sera when asked about Messi potentially joining Inter.
“Innovation, planning, constant growth, economic stability are our cornerstones.
“Following this path, which involves planning in the long term, we will arrive at the desired results and goals, we will bring Inter back to the national and International level.”
Zhang referenced the coronavirus crisis as a reason why Inter needed to be careful with spending at the moment, like most other clubs.
“This plan is aimed at a program of constant growth for the company and the team," the Inter chairman added.
"Football is experiencing a very delicate, turbulent moment at the International level, this attitude of prudence will not only concern this market session but must also be respected in the future.”
The Nerazzurri have already completed the €40m signing of Achraf Hakimi this summer, while they have also had to pay for the permanent transfers of Nicolo Barella and Stefano Sensi
Lionel Messi 
Barcelona 
Inter 
