Serie A: Politano tips Spalletti stay amid Conte to Inter reports

Inter winger Matteo Politano is preparing for Luciano Spalletti - and not Antonio Conte - to be at the helm of the Nerazzurri next term.

Matteo Politano rates Inter-linked Antonio Conte as a "great coach" but expects Luciano Spalletti to remain in charge beyond this season.

Reports in Italy state Inter is preparing to cut short Spalletti's tenure and install former Chelsea boss Conte as his replacement.

READ | Speroni set to bid Crystal Palace goodbye 15 years

The 49-year-old worked closely with Nerazzurri chief executive Beppe Marotta during a successful stint at Juventus and this week revealed there is "60 per cent probability" of him coaching in Serie A next term.

Returning to champion Juve could also prove option if, as is rumoured, Massimiliano Allegri steps down from his post.

Inter winger Politano admires Conte but, with Champions League qualification appearing likely, believes Inter will avoid making a change.

"I think Spalletti will remain [in charge] next year," the Italy international told Sport Mediaset . "He has a contract and we are at his and the club's disposal."

Asked about Conte, Politano added: "I've never met him but he is a great coach. His numbers speak for themselves."

Inter is third in Serie A, one point ahead of Atalanta and four clear of fifth-placed AC Milan.

The Nerazzurri will expect to improve on a run of three successive draws when it hosts bottom club Chievo on Monday.