Milan, Italy - Inter Milan is reportedly gearing up for a substantial squad transformation come the summer of 2026, with an eye toward injecting youth and dynamism into its ranks. Sources indicate that the club is only prepared to offer a new contract to one of five players facing expiring deals, while a number of senior figures are expected to depart.
The club appears poised to move on from several established players whose contracts are set to conclude in June. Reports suggest that Yann Sommer, Francesco Acerbi, Matteo Darmian, and Stefan de Vrij will not have their agreements extended, signaling a clear shift in defensive personnel. This impending exodus from the backline has Inter actively scouting for replacements, with Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham reportedly a primary target. Discussions regarding Vicario are said to be resuming, though Juventus also holds an interest in the goalkeeper.
Beyond the defensive reshuffling, Inter's transfer ambitions extend to the attacking third. Argentine prospect Nico Paz has emerged as the club's leading offensive acquisition target for the upcoming transfer window. Paz, currently with Como, is recognized for his creative flair and dribbling ability, a profile seen as ideal for Inter's potential adoption of a 3-4-2-1 formation. However, the pursuit of Paz is complicated by the possibility of Real Madrid recalling the player or opting for a buy-back clause. Another name floated in attacking discussions is Nico Williams.
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The future of Henrikh Mkhitaryan stands apart from his veteran teammates. He is reportedly the sole player among the five with expiring contracts who has a chance of securing a new deal at San Siro. This selective approach to contract renewals underscores the broader strategy of rejuvenation.
Further reinforcing the defensive rebuild, Inter has reportedly moved on from Solet and Muharemovic. In the search for a replacement for Darmian, Celik is identified as a preferred option. The club's scouting network is also casting a wider net across Europe for young, promising defenders capable of integrating into manager Cristian Chivu's system, with names like Ordonez and Koulierakis appearing on their radar. The acquisition of Marc Guehi remains a possibility, though other avenues are being explored.
The club's financial capacity for significant signings is understood to be contingent on the ambition of its ownership, Oaktree.
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Background
The reports suggest a proactive approach by Inter Milan in planning for the 2026-27 season, anticipating a significant transition in its playing squad. The focus appears to be on managing the departure of older players, whose contracts are expiring, while simultaneously identifying and pursuing younger talent deemed suitable for the club's long-term vision. Manager Cristian Chivu's potential influence on tactical formations, such as a shift to a 3-4-2-1, is also a recurring theme in these discussions, indicating a strategic alignment between coaching staff and transfer market intentions.