Report: Inter target Marin if Tevez bid fails

Inter Milan have reportedly identified Werder Bremen playmaker Marko Marin as a back-up option if they fail to sign Carlos Tevez in January.

Claudio Ranieri’s men are locked in a battle with cross-town Serie A rivals AC Milan for the signature of Manchester City striker Tevez, with the Argentina international’s destination yet to be confirmed.

But Inter have reportedly earmarked Germany international Marin as a potential alternative if their move for the South American falls through, though they are yet to open talks for the Bremen schemer.

Marin has battled injuries since joining Bremen from Bundesliga rivals Borussia Moenchengladbach, but has long been linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

The 22-year-old told Sky Sport News HD there had been no recent talks over his future, however.

“Yes of course you hear these things. You notice it. It’s nice when you hear these kind of things – of course. But there weren’t concrete talks with Inter yet. My goal is it now to be back at 100 percent and to be fit for the second leg of the season,” he said.

The attacking midfielder’s contract with the Bundesliga outfit expires in June 2013. He has made 12 appearances in all competitions this campaign, providing three assists.