The Germans want to re-sign the winger they sold just three years ago. Al-Ittihad’s resistance is not helping at this stage, but the Nerazzurri are still in the hunt.
Where were we? Regarding the transfer market, Cristian Chivu’s most recent assessment of the Nerazzurri can be summed up in three words: ‘We must choose well.’ This philosophy has guided Inter through a summer transfer window that has, at times, been a rollercoaster, particularly concerning the right-wing position. Yet, the club has never deviated from its core principles, confident in its existing squad. Indeed, they have emerged from difficulties (Palestra and Khalaili) with such clarity that they have avoided any hasty or frantic decisions to fill a spot that seems almost enchanted. In this strategic game, one of the first moves was made by the coach himself – a pragmatic figure focused on immediate solutions. Deploying Andy Diouf there in pre-season brought some positives but also highlighted certain shortcomings, which are inevitable for a willing player not in his natural role. However, Inter’s best interests always come first, so the team plays and develops even in this manner. All of this was anticipated within the gentle framework of summer football, where there are no real consequences. But the right man for that right-wing spot must arrive. Chivu knows it, and the club continues to work on it. Today, that man speaks French, fits the profile of a more offensive than defensive winger, and is a familiar face: Moussa Diaby.
Attacking Winger—
Diaby is currently the ideal profile (much more so than Molina, a more ‘pure’ full-back than the Frenchman, who ultimately joined Roma). His technical characteristics can offer something extra to a team that wants to be even more vertical, proactive, and aggressive. Chivu is now uncompromising on forward projection; this is how you attack, push forward, and dominate – both in Italy and in Europe. The vision is clear, and the players are almost in place. There are a couple of weeks until the start of the league season, but just over three until the transfer market closes. Time is on their side, and another ingredient not lacking in the Nerazzurri’s approach is a healthy caution that keeps the club vigilant until the very last moment for any opportunity that might arise between now and September 1st.
Caution because…—
There are essentially two reasons for this caution: one historical, the other more current. Firstly, Inter have not forgotten that in January, after securing the player’s agreement (who was already looking to leave the Saudi club at the time), Al-Ittihad’s resistance scuppered a deal that would have pleased everyone. Now, resuming negotiations with the Saudi club is no easier than it was six or seven months ago. The Nerazzurri even explored the possibility of including a counterpart (namely, surplus player Asllani) in the deal, but Jeddah remains reluctant. This is because Bayer Leverkusen – incidentally, his former club – are also in the hunt for Diaby. They are not giving up and could make a move at any moment to re-sign the Frenchman they sold to Aston Villa just three years ago. Despite this complex scenario, the Nerazzurri will continue their pursuit. The situation is fluid, and competition is fierce, but Inter are still very much in the race.
This article was originally written in Italian by La Gazzetta dello Sport editor. The English version has been generated using AI translation tools. If you notice any translation errors or have suggestions, please contact us at iniziativegazzetta@rcs.it
© RIPRODUZIONE RISERVATA