Gamarra - heading for Inter Milan. (Allsport)

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Inter Milan have beaten arch rivals AC Milan to the signature of talented Paraguayan defender Carlos Gamarra.

Inter have yet to make an official announcement, but PA International have learned that the Flamengo centre-back has signed for Hector Cuper's side on a free transfer.

His talents will be on display this summer in Japan and Korea at the World Cup.

The 31-year-old who spent last season on loan at AEK Athens is quite a prize.

He helped AEK clinch the Greek Cup and runners-up spot in the Greek league.

Gamarra drew the attention of the Italian scouts in both legs of Inter's UEFA Cup fourth round tie against AEK this season and was linked to a move to both Milan clubs.

He has agreed a two-year contract with Inter worth a reported 1.6million euros (£1million) per season.

The South American had hinted that the switch was going to take place earlier this week when he told Inter's website: "To play in Serie A is the ambition of any player.

"In Italy there are some of the best footballers in the world and Serie A is certainly one of the most tactical leagues.

"At Inter there is a very good group of players with a charismatic manager."

Gamarra's best qualities are his overall strength and versatility.

"I can play in a three or four man defence in both zonal and man marking systems and I believe my strength is my ability to adapt to all kinds of tactics," he added.

"My best characteristics are my anticipation and strength in the air."

Cuper put the strengthening his defence top of his summer priorities after Inter suffered final day heartache earlier this month when they missed out on the Scudetto.