Nigerian midfielder Joel Obi came unbelievably close to scoring the all-important goal for Inter Milan in their derby against rivals AC Milan on Sunday night, but a sharp save from Rossoneri keeper Diego Lopez ensured that the game ended in a goalless stalemate.

Both Milan giants have struggled this season, and the 0-0 draw leaves Milan and Inter in 9th and 10th position respectively, putting them in difficulty of securing any form of European football next season, as even the Europa League now seems out of reach with only seven league games remaining.

The two sides shared the run of play during the encounter, with Inter beginning strong, before Milan enjoyed the better opportunities in the middle of the match, and then Inter ending their home game on a high note with a barrage of goalscoring chances which Milan managed to deal with under pressure.

One of the chances that could have changed the face of the match fell to Nigeria international Obi, as a shot from the left hand side of the box was deflected by Rodrigo Palacio at point blank range before a stunning save from Spaniard Lopez 10 minutes from time.

Twenty-three-year-old Obi scored the equaliser for Inter in the earlier Milan derby this season in November which ended 1-1, and he came extremely close to finding the winner in the most recent encounter, but it was not to be.

The Super Eagles player is reported to be the subject of strong interest from Turkish club Fenerbahce, while Serie A clubs Atalanta and Genoa have also been linked to the midfielder ahead of the end of season transfer window.