Inter Milan Unfazed by PSG's Temptations: €145M Double Stars Safe, Says Insider – This Player Could Be Targeted Instead

Recently, two discussion topics concerning Inter Milan have become hot topics on Western social media. The first topic is: when can fans purchase Inter Milan jerseys with two stars? Theoretically, Inter could secure the championship as early as April. However, the trophy presentation will occur in May, as per the league's schedule to award it at the last home game of the season. Profiting from the sale of two-star jerseys, however, might not happen until July. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter’s plan for selling two-star jerseys is not yet finalized (since they haven’t won the title yet), but due to changes in front-of-shirt sponsors (with Paramount+ no longer being the sponsor after June 30), the actual sales boom is expected to start in July. This topic isn’t the main focus here, so let’s move on.

The second hot topic is: French media rumors suggest that after signing a certain Slovakian, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) plans to offer a massive salary to lure Alessandro Bastoni away from Inter. Will Inter put their "Italian national treasure" on the market? The saga of how the Slovakian traded his well-crafted image for a massive salary and signing bonus doesn’t need rehashing. The current rumor is that PSG wants to repeat their strategy, offering a substantial signing bonus plus a €12 million net salary with a low transfer fee to lure Bastoni. This has sparked heated discussions. Some are puzzled by PSG's penchant for such moves, while others are more concerned about whether Inter can retain the player if such an offer materializes.

This situation presents a significant dilemma for Inter. Who wouldn’t be tempted by such a large sum of money? Renowned journalist Biasin, known for his close ties with Inter executives Marotta, Ausilio, and Baccin, addressed this issue. He assured that there is no need to worry about Barella and Bastoni succumbing to such "temptations." Biasin noted, "Marotta always says 'nobody is irreplaceable'; it all depends on the player. Bastoni truly does not want to leave Inter. He and Barella both want to stay here for many years."

Currently, in the transfer market valuation system, Barella and Bastoni are Inter’s second and third most valuable players, with a combined value of €145 million. Both serve as vice-captains, and it’s not uncommon to see them wearing the armband this season. Besides their market value, there is also the matter of international recognition and market appeal. Some Inter players receive high praise in Inter fan circles on forums and social media but are less appreciated by fans of Premier League or Bundesliga teams. These public perceptions can influence clubs' decisions, as high-value transfers are not only about competition but also about generating buzz and pleasing fans. Barella and Bastoni, however, are exceptions. Even fans from English, Spanish, French, and German leagues often praise their abilities. For instance, many Manchester City and Chelsea fans openly admire Bastoni, considering him superior to many high-priced players.

This constant admiration has led to widespread concern among Italians about whether Inter can resist the financial muscle of top clubs targeting these two Italian internationals. Biasin's comments reveal the transfer committee's confidence; even if lucrative offers come in, Inter is not worried about Barella or Bastoni agitating for a move. They have a stronger sense of belonging to the club compared to the aforementioned Slovakian.

Over the past one to two years, Marotta has made it clear that for Inter to balance financial stability with competitive goals, they must seize opportunities. What does this mean? Opportunities include signing talented players at a low cost or receiving substantial offers for their own players. Both types of opportunities must be grasped. Marotta emphasized, "Inter fans must accept reality." The current issue is that while Barella and Bastoni are highly marketable, neither the club wants to sell them, nor do the players want to leave. Given this context, which Inter player has decent market appeal and would be allowed to leave without significant obstacles? Biasin believes it could be Marcus Thuram.

Biasin describes Thuram as "aggredibile" (targetable). He stated, "I think the most likely Inter player to be targeted is Thuram. He joined on a free transfer, and PSG will need to replace Mbappe this summer, likely looking for a French player. Of course, it also depends on whether Thuram himself wants to leave." This kind of deal, signing a player on a free transfer and selling him for a high price a year later, happened with Inter last summer. Will Thuram be the next? If PSG does offer an enormous salary, how will the French forward react?

Biasin’s insights have sparked widespread discussions. While some fans worry about losing their star players, others recognize the strategic importance of utilizing the new tax policy to their advantage. The recent adjustments to Italy’s tax incentive policy will significantly influence Inter Milan’s strategic planning and recruitment. The club must navigate these changes carefully to optimize their squad composition while managing financial constraints. The cases of Dumfries and Hermoso exemplify the complex considerations involved in player contracts and transfers under the new tax regime. Inter Milan’s ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial in maintaining their competitiveness in Serie A and beyond.