Inter Milan have reportedly taken the first step towards winning the battle to sign Mohamed Salah from Chelsea.

Salah was only signed by Chelsea in January 2014, but he was allowed to join Fiorentina on loan for the second half of the season after finding it difficult to secure regular minutes on the pitch.

The Egyptian was in impressive form during his spell with Fiorentina and they are believed to be keen on a permanent deal.

However, Tuttosport claims that the uncertainty surrounding who will take charge of the side next season has allowed Inter to make contact with the attacking midfielder's agent.

Fiorentina are reported to have the option to extend Salah's loan by another year.