LEICESTER, ENGLAND - Tuesday, December 2, 2014: Liverpool's Lucas Leiva in action against Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez during the Premier League match at Filbert Way. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Report: Lucas wants Inter Milan move despite regaining Liverpool place

Reports in Italy suggest Lucas Leiva could be set for a January exit, with the Brazilian apparently keen on a move to Inter Milan.

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - Tuesday, December 2, 2014: Liverpool's Lucas Leiva in action against Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez during the Premier League match at Filbert Way. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the 27-year-old has spoken to Inter boss Roberto Mancini about a January move.

Lucas has enjoyed something of a resurrection at Anfield this season, returning to the heart of midfield and adding much-needed defensive cover to the team.

This rumour will likely come as a surprise to many, given that he has become a key player again, and because of the loyalty he has shown the club since joining in 2007. Barring Steven Gerrard, he is now Liverpool’s longest serving player.

Although the Brazilian’s potential exit would be a blow to Brendan Rodgers, it’s worth stressing that the Reds can do better in that role.

Lucas’ return to form has been refreshing without question, but he is still limited. His lack of pace is alarming at times, and he doesn’t have the technical ability to dictate a game from the middle of the park.

There are better options out there, most notably Lars Benders, as Jack Lusby recently discussed, and assuming Lucas did leave this month, it would be imperative that the club bought in a replacement.

If they let him go without having someone else lined up, it would be absolute madness.