Inter Milan’s sporting director, Piero Ausilio, recently addressed the swirling transfer rumors surrounding the club, offering definitive statements on several key players and potential targets. Ausilio’s pronouncements provide a clear picture of Inter’s transfer strategy, emphasizing their commitment to retaining core players while also exploring opportunities to bolster their squad with targeted acquisitions. His comments underscore a pragmatic approach, balancing ambition with financial prudence and a focus on maintaining team harmony.
Addressing the speculation surrounding French forward Marcus Thuram, Ausilio unequivocally stated that the player is not for sale. This firm stance quashes any lingering doubts about Thuram’s future at the San Siro, emphasizing his importance to Inter’s attacking plans. This declaration of intent sends a strong message to other clubs and reinforces Inter’s commitment to building a competitive squad capable of challenging for major honors. Retaining a player of Thuram’s caliber is crucial for Inter’s ambitions, and Ausilio’s statement underscores their resolve to keep their key assets.
Similarly, Ausilio dismissed reports linking goalkeeper Yann Sommer with a move to Galatasaray. He clarified that no concrete discussions took place and that Sommer remains an integral part of Inter’s plans. This reinforces Inter’s confidence in Sommer’s abilities and their desire to maintain stability in the goalkeeping position. With the departure of veteran goalkeeper Samir Handanović, Sommer’s presence provides experience and leadership in the backline, making him a valuable asset for the Nerazzurri.
While emphasizing their commitment to retaining key players, Ausilio also confirmed Inter’s interest in acquiring new talent. He acknowledged the club’s pursuit of Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, confirming that a bid had been submitted. However, Ausilio also stressed that Inter would not engage in protracted negotiations, highlighting their pragmatic approach to transfers. This indicates a clear strategy of identifying targets and pursuing them decisively, without being drawn into lengthy and potentially costly bidding wars. This measured approach reflects a responsible financial strategy while still striving to strengthen the squad.
Regarding outgoing players, Ausilio confirmed that midfielder Kristian Asllani has been advised to seek playing time elsewhere. This decision suggests that Asllani does not feature prominently in Inter’s plans for the upcoming season and highlights the club’s willingness to facilitate moves for players who are not part of their core squad. This allows Asllani to pursue opportunities for regular football and further his development, while also allowing Inter to potentially recoup some of their investment and free up space in the squad. This move showcases Inter’s focus on maximizing playing time for their key players and providing opportunities for younger players to gain experience elsewhere.
Ausilio also addressed the rumors surrounding Turkish midfielder Hakan Çalhanoğlu and a potential move to Galatasaray. He confirmed that initial contact was made between the clubs, but discussions quickly stalled due to irreconcilable differences. This swift conclusion to negotiations underscores Inter’s valuation of Çalhanoğlu and their unwillingness to entertain offers that do not meet their expectations. Ausilio’s statement also reinforces the club’s strong relationship with Çalhanoğlu and their desire to retain his services. This further emphasizes Inter’s commitment to maintaining a strong core of experienced players while strategically pursuing new additions to enhance the squad. The overall picture painted by Ausilio is one of a club with a clear vision for the future, balancing ambition with financial responsibility and prioritizing the retention of key players.
