Report: Inter close to signing Pepe on free transfer

Inter has opened negotiations to sign pugnacious Portuguese defender Pepe on a free transfer from Real Madrid, according to Sky Sport's Fabrizio Romano.

The Nerazzurri, in need of defensive reinforcements after another disappointing domestic campaign, are close to an agreement with the player, adds Romano, but the final decision rests with Inter's Chinese ownership group.

Suning Sports has already sanctioned some big-money moves, including the €45-million capture of Joao Mario last summer.

But Pepe, out of contract at the end of June, would arrive for free. As is the case with soon-to-be free agents, the experienced 34-year-old would command competitive wages.

Having represented Los Blancos since 2007, Pepe has become a marginalised figure in the Spanish capital, making just 13 appearances in La Liga this season.

A pair of fractured ribs forced the former Porto centre-back onto the sidelines in April, and robbed him of a farewell match Sunday at the Bernabeu.