Inter boss hints at purge to solidify club's 'foundation'

Inter Milan owner and president Erick Thohir hailed the capture of Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic but hinted on Thursday the club's rebuilding could continue with a summer purge of ageing stock.

On Wednesday, Vidic signed a three-year deal through June 2017 with the ailing Serie A giant, with the Serbian international defender set to earn $3.8 million plus bonuses annually, according to Italian media reports.

Although Vidic will join Inter for the start of next season, its rebuilding began with the acquisition of Brazilian midfielder Hernanes from Lazio in January.

Thohir said he regarded both players as pivotal to his long-term plan to make Inter, Champions League winner in 2010, competitive again both at home and abroad.

But after landing at Milan airport ahead of Sunday's home game against Torino, the Indonesian businessman also hinted that some of Inter's older stock could be moved.

"We're looking to lay a solid foundation over the next three years," said Thohir.

"We've signed Hernanes and Vidic, both of whom are leaders, and we have to add more players ahead of next season.

"I think we'll have more stability on the club and I would like the average age to be 26."

In the past Thohir has affirmed his intention to see talent break through from the club's youth ranks, but Thursday's La Gazzetta dello Sport speculated that sporting director Piero Ausilio is keen on Arsenal right-back Bacary Sagna, as well as Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel.

The report also speculated that veteran striker Diego Milito, 34, could be sold, paving the way for the arrival of another forward to supplement Argentinians Rodrigo Palacio and Mauro Icardi.

Walter Samuel, 35, could also be on the way out, while fellow defender Andrea Ranocchia, who has fallen out of favor with coach Walter Mazzarri, is almost certain to leave, added the report.

Thohir, meanwhile, has played down speculation suggesting Ajax boss Frank De Boer will replace Mazzarri.

"He's a good coach, but we haven't had any contact. I've never met him," said Thohir.

Inter missed out on Europe this campaign due to a disastrous ninth-place finish last season under Andrea Stramaccioni.

The Nerazzurri currently sit fifth in the table, 11 points behind the last Champions League qualifying place occupied by third-placed Napoli and 28 behind leader Juventus.