Mauro Icardi 'refusing' to return to training with Inter Milan

Inter Milan manager Luciano Spalletti has revealed that Mauro Icardi has informed the club that he does not feel ready to return to training.

The 26-year-old has not kicked a ball for Inter since being stripped of the captaincy early last month, missing a total of six matches in all competitions.

Inter's decision to take the armband off the Argentina international was considered a punishment for his reluctance to sign a contract extension at San Siro.

Icardi's prolonged absence has been put down to a knee injury, most recently forcing him out of the 0-0 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday night, but Spalletti confirmed after that Europa League clash that the striker has already been given the green light to resume training.

"The truth is that we asked Mauro if he felt like resuming training," he told reporters post-match. "The doctor said that in his view the necessary period for treatment had passed.

"He replied: 'No, I still feel pain. I'll tell you when I feel ready to play.' I acknowledged what he said and went back home."

Juventus have confirmed their interest in Icardi, much to Inter's annoyance, while Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked.