TEHRAN - In a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Iranian football legend Ali Daei has heaped praise on Inter Milan's new signing, Mehdi Taremi.

Daei, who is the third-highest scorer in international football trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, believes that Taremi is a "true goal-scorer" who can contribute significantly to the Nerazzurri's attack.

“Taremi is a true bomber, he can score at least 15 goals. He is the best striker in all of Asia,” Daei declared. “His greatest quality is his football intelligence. Watch him closely: he may not touch the ball very often, but he scores, he moves well, he wins every duel.”

Daei believes that Inter have pulled off a remarkable deal in acquiring Taremi on a free transfer. “Absolutely,” he said. “For a player who has scored over 90 goals for Porto in the last four years, it's an incredible deal. He's scored decisive goals in the UEFA Champions League and won several trophies. Approved.”

When asked about Taremi's best qualities, Daei highlighted his intelligence and physicality.

“His football intelligence is exceptional. Taremi moves a lot, which is why he surprises defenders. Plus, he's also very physical. He doesn't lose a duel and it's not easy to dispossess him. He also has great technical quality in the final third, which you might not expect.”

Daei singled out Taremi's bicycle kick against Chelsea in the 2021 Champions League as one of his most impressive goals. “He showed that he can score acrobatic goals,” Daei said. “He knows how to position himself, evade markers, and use his body. If you're not good, you don't score 50 goals for your national team.”

Daei is confident that Taremi will thrive under Inter manager Simone Inzaghi.

“From what I've seen, yes,” he said. “He'll already know everything about him, so I don't think he needs my advice. I can only say that, at this moment, Inzaghi is the coach who can get the best out of him. Moreover, the system favors him. Mehdi performs better alongside another striker: he can combine with them, provide assists, and exploit the wings. He always knows where to be on crosses.”

When asked about Taremi's goal-scoring potential in Serie A, Daei replied, “It depends on the context and his starting role, but I would say 15 or even more. Serie A is much more difficult than the Portuguese league, but when you know how to score, you can do it anywhere, in any league.”

Daei concluded by praising Taremi's character. “He is humble, respectful, and has strong values,” he said. “He has never forgotten where he came from, his origins, and the city where he was born, Bushehr. He has a great personality. I haven't had the chance to speak to him recently, but I'm sure he will do well. And above all, he will score goals. Inter fans can rest assured.”