Pescara vs Inter Milan preview - Cambiasso says Inter need to `step up'

Inter Milan midfielder Esteban Cambiasso has called on his side to step up as they move on from Europa League qualifying action to the start of the Serie A campaign.

Cambiasso was on the scoresheet as Inter beat Vaslui 2-0 in Thursday night's play-off first leg.

But as the league campaign begins with a trip to Pescara, the Argentina international told Inter Channel: "Now the ride begins, with matches close together.

"We have the right motivation and the right mindset. Now we must put aside this victory and think of Pescara."

Coach Andrea Stramaccioni was encouraged by the display in Romania - and his mood was improved still further by signing of Porto winger Alvaro Pereira.

He told the club's official website: "The technical director (Marco Branca) spent 48 hours in Portugal and returned with the player we wanted, Alvaro Pereira. I thank him and the President (Massimo Moratti) because they have fulfilled my wishes."

Another new signing, Walter Gargano, is set to come straight into the Nerazzuri's midfield after Gaby Mudingayi was injured against Vaslui, while forward Rodrigo Palacio is serving a suspension held over from last season.

Pescara have been busy trying to improve their squad for the start of the season, with Croatian striker Ante Vukusic reportedly undergoing a medical today ahead of a move to the Stadio Adriatico.

The 21-year-old scored against Inter as they scraped past Hajduk Split 3-2 on aggregate in the third qualifying round in their continental adventure.

They have also been linked with Crotone midfielder Denilson Gabionetta, but the Brazilian's agent Pino Letterio yesterday revealed a move was still some way from completion.