Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio has revealed that Andrea Ranocchia will renew his contract with the Biscione and could become the club’s next captain.

There has been some speculation revolving around who the next Nerazzurri captain could be, with both captain Javier Zanetti and vice-captain Esteban Cambiasso departing from the team this summer, and Ausilio has confirmed that the 26-year-old, who was linked with several moves away from the Milan side throughout the campaign, is a strong candidate to take the position.

Ausilio spoke during a press conference on Saturday about Ranocchia’s future with Inter and explained why he has a chance of becoming the next squad leader.

“There is no need to have a phone call with him, we have already spoken, however,” said the sporting director.

“We’re holding on to Andrea, we would like to extend our relationship with him and together build a stronger Inter.

“He can sign [a new deal] without problems.

“Who could be the next Inter captain? Ranocchia can be a serious candidate. He’s Italian and he has healthy values.”