Inter Milan block Reds’ in the pursuit of 18-year-old defender Zinho Vanheusden

Considered one of the brightest young talents in Italy, Inter have high hopes for the youngster and the Belgian was part of their pre-season preparations in the summer.

Vanheusden's performances for Inter's youth teams have been attracting scouts and Liverpool and Southampton were reportedly interested in snaring him away from the San Siro.

However, the Italian giants were in no mood to lose the player and blocked any offers for the youngster as they remain keen to see him realise his talent with the Nerazzurri.

And now it appears that Inter are preparing to tie the youngster down to a long-term contract,

Vanheusden has also been making his mark with Belgium and his represented the country at all levels of youth football, including breaking into the Under-21 squad earlier this year.