Inter Milan vice-president Javier Zanetti admits they explored signing Argentina star Lionel Messi.
Messi is in his second season with PSG after being allowed to come off contract by Barcelona.
Zanetti recalled to DAZN: "I was surprised when he said goodbye to Barcelona.
"But realistically we can't compete with PSG or the other Premier League clubs. Due to the relationship we have, we spoke to each other when there was this possibility."
Messi's current deal with PSG expires in June.