Inter's Coaching and Transfer Departments Face Key Disagreements: Crucial Plans for Battles Against Motta, Conte, and Fonseca

Yesterday, local time, Inter Milan’s head coach Simone Inzaghi's agent, Tullio Tinti, visited the club's headquarters to officially kick off the renewal talks for the Nerazzurri boss. As he left the Inter base in the evening, Tinti expressed optimism: "We are negotiating, and in my opinion, he will stay at Inter until 2037 (laughs)." However, some disagreements remain, requiring at least one more meeting to finalize the renewal, meaning an official announcement will take a few more days.

The crux of the disagreements? It’s not about salary, bonuses, or contract length. Nor is it solely about whether Inzaghi needs four or five forwards. It also includes whether all key players can be retained. Inter has already made significant efforts to keep their core players, such as making substantial progress in renewing Lautaro Martinez and Nicolo Barella. However, one key figure causing debate is Denzel Dumfries. Dumfries' contract expires in 2025, and so far, there has been no breakthrough in extending his deal. If Inter does not want to repeat the mistakes made with certain Slovakian players, they must seriously consider selling the Dutchman this summer to avoid a situation where they lose both the player and his potential transfer fee when his contract expires.

Inter's management must prepare contingency plans. However, Inzaghi is reluctant to let Dumfries leave. Replacing Dumfries would introduce uncertainties, whether by signing an expensive star they can't afford or a cheaper alternative that might not meet expectations. Even if the latter option doesn't fail, the adjustment period could significantly increase the coach's workload and pressure. Many team reporters also don't want Dumfries to leave. For example, journalist Biasin recently commented, "It's hard to find a better player at this price, his abilities exceed his valuation, and he's been part of the team for three years and knows how to integrate. For his infectious smile... Based on these reasons, I hope Dumfries stays at Inter." While opinions on his smile vary, the first three points are indeed solid arguments.

Disagreements between the transfer and coaching departments over Dumfries are normal and shouldn't be exaggerated. Just like the debate over having four or five forwards next season, these issues can be resolved through communication. Sky Sports brought these concerns to Piero Ausilio, Inter’s sporting director, asking, "Dumfries has attracted interest from Premier League clubs. Would Inter replace him with Ndoye if he leaves?" Ausilio responded, "I often talk with Dumfries about his contract situation. He has expressed his desire to stay, so let's see if he maintains this stance. Currently, he tells me he wants to stay at Inter, and we have several players for the right-back position." Ausilio prefers straightforward answers or no answers at all, and this time he deliberately avoided the question about Ndoye. However, transfer market experts reveal that Inter's management has been in contact with several agents recently, including those from BSG, which represents Ndoye. This indicates that Inter has a Plan B if Dumfries' renewal talks fail, even if they aren't openly discussing it.

The TV program pointed out that one of Inzaghi's key reasons for not wanting Dumfries and other well-integrated core players to leave is the anticipated challenge from opponents like Fonseca, Conte, and Motta next season. The Inter coach believes retaining all key members will help in accumulating points early in the season when opponents might still be finding their rhythm. Since a strong start is crucial for the title race blueprint next season, minimizing disruption during the summer is essential. In the current Inter system, integration is a significant issue. For example, players like Frattesi and Buchanan have the abilities but have not fully integrated even after half a year or a year. Can a new wing-back quickly adapt? The coach has his doubts. This perspective is also acknowledged by Inter's transfer officials. Ausilio stated, "We need to maintain strength and determination from the start of next season. I notice other teams are improving well, and we must ensure Inter is in the championship race next season. The team is already strong, but if opportunities arise in the market, we will take them. Regardless, we must be prepared from the start of the league."

In conclusion, Inter's evaluation of transfers and renewals should consider more than just whether a deal is financially sound. Given that several Serie A giants are changing coaches and might make strategic and tactical shifts, which could lead to mistakes early in the season, Inter must take a broader strategic approach. Ultimately, transfers are meant to serve the team’s performance. Without good results, no amount of financial prudence counts as success. Under this premise, whether Dumfries will be put on the market, similar to the high salary debate surrounding Lautaro, is no longer just a question of the worthiness of a single transaction. The Dutchman will undoubtedly be a key focus this summer.