Following a disappointing Champions League campaign, Inter Milan is now fully focused on winning the Scudetto, but Director Marotta is already orchestrating a major transfer market revolution. The club aims to spend over €100 million to strengthen the squad, with Manu Koné identified as the primary “gift” for coach Chivu, who had desired him since last summer. Despite the impossibility of signing Nico Paz, Inter is prepared to invest significantly, though they must also carefully monitor potential departures of their highly sought-after key players.
Inter’s Restructuring: Over €100 Million for Transfers
The failure to reach the Champions League group stage has reduced the budget, but it has also underscored the urgent need for immediate squad restructuring. The club is preparing for a comprehensive overhaul, from the goalkeeper position (seeking Sommer’s successor) to the attack (should Thuram depart). However, the primary focus will be on the midfield, with at least two high-quality additions. If all targeted acquisitions by Marotta and Ausilio materialize, Inter’s spending would exceed €100 million, delivering a significantly revamped squad to Chivu.
Koné: The Key Signing for Chivu
Manu Koné is considered the key summer investment. Inter had attempted to sign him last August after abandoning their pursuit of Lookman, but Roma and Atalanta blocked the move. Koné, 24, offers both quality and physicality, precisely what the Nerazzurri midfield needs. Inter is ready for another push, but the outcome depends on Roma. The asking price is reportedly at least €40-45 million, with a possibility of including Frattesi in the deal to reduce the cash outlay. An intense negotiation axis between Milan and Rome is anticipated.
Marotta’s Goalkeeper Targets: Post-Sommer Era
Acquiring a new goalkeeper is a priority, as Sommer (alongside Acerbi, De Vrij, and Darmian) sees his contract expire in June. Mkhitaryan’s future is still under review, with even retirement being a possibility. Sommer’s successor is expected to come from the Premier League, with Guglielmo Vicario and Alisson Becker being Marotta’s main targets. Both players are looking for a resurgence: Vicario (29), formerly of Empoli, has endured a challenging season at Tottenham, even being benched in the Champions League. Alisson (34), the former Roma goalkeeper, seems to have lost his golden touch at Liverpool due to injuries and inconsistencies. Vicario is valued around €30 million, while Alisson, despite being older, might have a lower transfer fee but commands a net salary of €5 million at Anfield.
Other Transfer Ideas, Department by Department
The defense is set for rejuvenation, with Muharemovic, a 23-year-old Bosnian defender from Sassuolo, emerging as a primary target. His valuation is estimated at a minimum of €30 million, with Juventus holding a 50% sell-on clause, thus keenly observing the developments. Aleksandar Stankovic Jr.’s future is already clearer: Inter plans to exercise their €25 million buy-back option for the 20-year-old midfielder, who is impressing at Club Brugge. Regarding the attack, movements will depend on player departures. While there’s an intention to promote young talent from Castellammare di Stabia, if Thuram leaves, another significant forward will be required.
Bastoni Alarm: Barcelona is Interested
Spanish outlet Sport reports that Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, met with Alessandro Bastoni’s agent to discuss a potential transfer for the Italian defender to Camp Nou. Recent controversies following the Derby d’Italia and the whistles he has received might prompt the 1999-born player to consider leaving. Nonetheless, Inter values the player at no less than €70 million.
