Inter want defensive reinforcements ahead of Cagliari meeting

Inter Milan are still pursuing defensive reinforcements as they look to build on a strong start to their Serie A campaign when they face their former coach Claudio Ranieri and his Cagliari side on Monday.

Simone Inzaghi's Inter began the season by beating Monza 2-0, with Lautaro Martinez scoring both goals, but their opponents failed to make the most of gaps in the Inter defence and were off target with their finishing when opportunities arose.

Inzaghi is hoping to plug those gaps by recruiting Benjamin Pavard from Bayern Munich, but it is unclear whether they can get a deal over the line in time for the France international to line up against Cagliari.

"The club is working hard, as we still need something to complete the squad, and it is our duty to make the fans happy," Inzaghi said.

The Sardinian newcomers are coached by Ranieri, who led Inter for almost a season from 2011-12.

Ranieri led Cagliari to promotion from Serie B and they began the season with a 0-0 draw at Torino.

Last season's runners-up Lazio will face promoted Genoa on Sunday after Maurizio Sarri's side suffered a 2-1 loss at Lecce, who scored two late goals, in their opener.

After the match, Sarri admitted that his side lacked the defensive capabilities to control the match.

"It’s hard to predict something like this. Games in the preseason don’t count much as the target is to get in shape for competitive matches."

Juventus will host Bologna on Sunday, with coach Massimiliano Allegri having an almost complete squad for the first match of the season at Allianz Arena.

When the sides met in Turin last season, it ended in a 3-0 win for Allegri's side and Juventus are unbeaten in their last 22 Serie A games against Bologna.

On Saturday, AS Roma visit Hellas