INTER MILAN are leading the chase to sign in-demand Bologna forward Simone Verdi, according to reports in Italy.

However, they will have to fend off competition from Serie A's biggest clubs.

4 Simone Verdi is a target for Inter Milan, Juventus, Roma and Napoli in Serie A Credit: Getty Images

4 Simone Verdi showed immense loyalty to stay at Bologna despite Napoli interest Credit: EPA

Corriere dello Sport report the Nerazzurri are leading the race for Verdi, 25, but Napoli, Juventus and Roma are also interested.

The Bologna striker has been in exceptional form this season — and hit the headlines in November when he scored two free-kicks with different feet in the same game during a 3-2 defeat at home to Crotone.

Verdi was on the brink of joining Napoli in January, but was widely praised for showing loyalty after he confirmed he owed it to the fans to stay at Bologna.

Inter host the Rossoblu tomorrow, where the striker will be hoping to make it nine matches without a win for Luciano Spalletti's men.

4 Simone Verdi hits Bologna's first against Crotone with a right-footed free-kick Credit: EPA

4 Seven minutes after left-footed first, Simone Verdi scores with right peg Credit: Getty Images

The San Siro giants' horrendous run of form has seen them fall out of contention for the title — and now struggling just to guarantee a place in the Champions League.

Should they miss out on participation in Europe's No 1 competition, they could lose star Mauro Icardi, who is a target for Real Madrid.

Verdi would work either as an alternative or replacement in the summer.

One of the reasons suggested for ultimately turning Napoli down in January is the forward's desire to play regularly.