Gabigol: Inter return unlikely despite Libertadores heroics

Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta said it is unlikely Gabriel 'Gabigol' Barbosa will return to Milan as the Serie A club weigh up offers following his stellar loan spell with Flamengo.

Gabigol has made a huge impact at Flamengo, where his goals helped the Brazilian giants to Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Brasileiro glory this season.

After struggling at Inter following his 2016 arrival, star striker Gabigol was initially loaned to Benfica before returning to his native Brazil.

Since moving back to South America on loan, Gabigol has scored 67 goals across all competitions with Santos and Flamengo, who are yet to agree terms on a permanent deal for the 23-year-old following his 40 goals for the Rio de Janeiro-based outfit.

Lautaro leaves no space for Gabigol

Amid links to Premier League duo West Ham and Everton, and reports he could be used in a deal to bring Fiorentina's Federico Chiesa to Inter, Marotta told Sky Sport Italia: "We see Gabigol the same way as Lautaro [Martínez], a player who is growing year by year.

"His loan ends in December, after which we'll carefully evaluate what to do with him.

"It's unlikely he'll be part of our project, but he has several proposals and we'll evaluate it all carefully along with the player."

Marotta heaped praise on star forward Martínez, who is enjoying a fine campaign amid reported interest from LaLiga champions Barcelona and Premier League giants Manchester United.

Martinez took his season tally to 11 with his double in Wednesday's 3-1 Champions League victory at Slavia Prague.

Speaking beforehand, Marotta said: "Lautaro has become increasingly confident and mature, especially for a 22-year-old, so he really has a great career ahead of him."