Inter Milan director Walter Sabatini has suggested that the Italian giants will not sell Joao Mario during the January transfer window.

Mario has failed to hold down a regular starting role since moving to San Siro in 2016, and that has led to the Portuguese international being linked with Manchester United.

However, Sabatini has claimed that "common ground" will have to be found with manager Luciano Spalletti ahead of the second half of the campaign.

Sabatini is quoted by Sky Sport Italia as saying: "As with all those who have to earn their place at the World Cup, Joao has some issues with the lack of playing time.

"We don't want to lose him, so he and Luciano Spalletti will find common ground and they'll work out what to do. He is our player and we want to keep him."

Mario has made just four starts and seven substitute appearances in Serie A this season.