Inter Milan's Wing-Back Setback May Alter Winter Transfer Strategy: Three Potential Solutions Emerge

As fans continue to debate Inter Milan's draw against Real Sociedad in the Champions League, the team has already shifted its focus forward. Amidst the discussions on forums, community websites, and social media, Inter has received a mix of good and bad news. Key players like Benjamin Pavard, Denzel Dumfries, and Stefan de Vrij are on the mend, but the situation with Juan Cuadrado could significantly alter the club’s strategy in the upcoming winter transfer window.

Injury Crisis and Its Impact

Simone Inzaghi, Inter’s head coach, has repeatedly addressed Cuadrado's situation in recent press conferences, noting that the player has been dealing with persistent Achilles tendon issues. Cuadrado had a strong pre-season and was expected to become a vital part of the team. However, after returning from national duty, he has been plagued by Achilles tendinitis. Although he made a brief comeback to cover for the injured Dumfries, he was unable to perform at his best due to ongoing pain.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Cuadrado may need surgery during the winter break, which would leave Inter with only Dumfries available on the right wing. This is untenable for the remainder of the season, pushing Inter to explore the winter transfer market for reinforcements.

Financial Constraints and the Need for Reinforcements

Inter Milan’s financial situation is not particularly robust. Any new signings would have to navigate the constraints imposed by UEFA’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations. Despite these financial hurdles and the fact that many of the 12 summer signings are still integrating into the team, Inter will need to find a solution if Cuadrado is sidelined long-term.

Both CEO Giuseppe Marotta and Sporting Director Piero Ausilio have stated that the club's winter transfer activity would depend on maintaining a “complete squad.” Should injuries or surgeries create significant gaps, they will not hesitate to act.

Potential Solutions

Inter Milan is considering several options to address the potential absence of Cuadrado.

1. Repositioning Carlos Augusto

One immediate solution is to reposition Carlos Augusto. Inzaghi prefers not to shift Davide Frattesi to the wing-back role, opting instead to test Augusto on the right flank. Augusto, initially brought in as a substitute, has become a crucial player, especially in the Champions League where he has logged significant minutes. Training sessions have already seen Augusto tested as a right wing-back, indicating Inzaghi’s willingness to adapt the Brazilian into a versatile player capable of covering multiple positions.

2. Exploring the Transfer Market for a Right Wing-Back

Another possibility is to scout the winter transfer market for a cost-effective right wing-back. Several candidates have emerged, such as Jeremy Toljan from Sassuolo. The 29-year-old German wing-back has been a key player for Sassuolo, with five assists in 14 Serie A matches this season. However, FFP constraints mean Inter must be cautious with their spending. A loan-to-buy option could be a viable strategy to bring in a player without exceeding financial limitations.

3. Reinforcing the Center-Back Position

A third option involves reinforcing the center-back position, indirectly solving the wing-back issue. Currently, Matteo Darmian is the most reliable alternative at right wing-back but is often deployed as a center-back due to injuries to players like Pavard. Strengthening the center-back position could free up Darmian to cover the wing-back role more effectively, providing a more balanced defensive setup and allowing players like Francesco Acerbi to rest more frequently.

Contract Negotiations and Future Planning

Inter's management is also focused on contract negotiations and planning for the future. Renewing contracts for key players such as Lautaro Martinez and Darmian is a priority, alongside securing free transfers for the next season. Talks with players like Piotr Zielinski and Romain Saïss have been progressing well, with Zielinski reportedly close to signing a four-year deal with Inter.

Saïss has expressed a desire to join Inter in the winter window, which would require a transfer fee of around €5 million. Should Cuadrado undergo surgery, the likelihood of Saïss joining in January would increase, providing Inter with much-needed defensive depth.

Navigating a Challenging Winter

Inter Milan faces a demanding winter period, with nine Serie A matches, the winter transfer window, and a cup competition to navigate before the Champions League round of 16. The team’s ability to make strategic decisions regarding player acquisitions and rotations will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge.

While the disappointment of finishing second in their Champions League group lingers, Inter must look ahead and address their squad's immediate needs. The upcoming winter transfer window presents an opportunity for the club to make necessary adjustments and bolster their chances of success in the second half of the season.