Real Madrid Eyes Inter Milan’s Rising Star: Defensive Reinforcements and Oak Tree Capital's Strategy

Inter Milan’s Summer Training and Forward Situation

Following penalty shootouts in their recent international competitions, both Argentina and France have advanced to the semifinals. This means that Inter Milan’s two key forwards, Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram, will have their return to summer training delayed. According to Inter’s policy, players are given at least three weeks of rest post-tournament, so these two strikers might not rejoin the team until August. By then, the rest of the squad will have been in training for half a month, as Inter’s preseason preparations begin on July 13.

This situation could be advantageous for new signing Mehdi Taremi. With the coaching staff focusing more on him during the early stages of training, Taremi is likely to get more playing time in a series of friendly matches, helping him integrate more quickly into the team.

Inter Milan’s Transfer Market Movements

Inter Milan has been active in the transfer market with several key updates. Saudi Arabian media have confirmed that Stefano Pioli, set to join Al-Ittihad, is intensifying efforts to sign Dutch defender Stefan de Vrij. In an interview, Inter Milan’s sporting director Piero Ausilio commented, “He is an important part of our team. He performed excellently in the Euros and played a significant role in our successes last season. He is a crucial player for us. If the situation escalates and he wishes to consider his options, we will listen. But from our perspective, we hope to have him with us next season.” This statement suggests Inter might retain de Vrij if the price is right.

Spanish outlet AS reported that Real Madrid is considering Inter’s rising star Timo Bisseck as a potential replacement for Nacho. Inter values the German player at €30 million, a significant increase from the €7 million paid for him last year. This price surge has excited many Inter fans, as seeing a player’s market value skyrocket is always welcome news. However, the credibility of this news remains uncertain, as it has only been reported by AS and Tuttosport, not top-tier sources.

Inter is currently in the market for defensive reinforcements. Selling a proven defender like Bisseck would only make sense if the price is right, ensuring that the proceeds are sufficient to secure an adequate replacement.

Oak Tree Capital’s Role in Inter’s Transfer Strategy

The most significant news in the past 24 hours is that Inter Milan’s transfer team has submitted three potential plans to Oak Tree Capital to address Tajon Buchanan’s injury. These plans have received feedback from the parent company. Ausilio elaborated, “Buchanan’s injury is not severe; he will recover in four months. We are evaluating whether we can make smart moves to complete our squad. We have discussed with the coach and identified potential targets. We are looking for a left-footed defender who can play as a center-back because Augusto can play as a left wing-back. We are seeking opportunities in the market and are calm about the situation. We won’t provide daily updates on progress as expected by the media; we have two months to find the right solution.”

Following Buchanan’s injury, transfer market experts suggested that Inter might opt for a left-sided center-back instead of a left wing-back, allowing Augusto to rotate with Dimarco. Ausilio’s comments confirm that Simone Inzaghi shares this view. The criteria for the new signing are clear: a left-footed player who can play center-back and comes at a reasonable transfer fee.

Sky Sports Italy’s insider reported that Inter Milan has consulted Oak Tree Capital regarding three potential solutions: investing in a young player, arranging a low-cost loan, or signing a free agent like Mario Hermoso. Oak Tree Capital indicated a preference for investing in young talent over signing Hermoso unless he is considered a significant opportunity (which would involve reducing his salary demands).

Mario Hermoso fits the criteria: he can play as a center-back and left-back, is left-footed, and is available on a free transfer. Last season, Hermoso played 45 matches across all competitions for Atletico Madrid, scoring two goals, providing two assists, and winning a penalty. He averaged 1.5 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, and 2.6 clearances per game, regaining possession 5.4 times per 90 minutes with a 55% duel success rate. His ability and experience are evident, but his high salary demands are a sticking point. His contract negotiations with Atletico Madrid fell through because he sought a net annual salary of €5-6 million.

According to Deloitte, Atletico Madrid’s annual revenue (between €360 million and €400 million) is comparable to Inter’s. If Atletico cannot afford Hermoso’s salary demands, Inter might also struggle. Napoli, under Antonio Conte, is also interested in Hermoso, but their president Aurelio De Laurentiis has strict salary caps, offering only €3.5 million annually, along with agent fees and signing bonuses, making negotiations difficult. If Inter intervenes now, they could win the battle for Hermoso. However, offering a high salary for a rotational player might disrupt Inter’s wage structure, explaining Oak Tree Capital’s cautious stance.

Real Madrid’s Interest in Timo Bisseck

Real Madrid’s reported interest in Timo Bisseck has added another layer of intrigue to Inter Milan’s summer transfer activities. Bisseck, who joined Inter last year for €7 million, has seen his value skyrocket to €30 million. This price hike reflects his impressive performances and potential. While Inter fans are thrilled at the prospect of such a profitable transfer, the credibility of this news is still under scrutiny, as it has only been reported by sources like AS and Tuttosport, not the most reliable outlets.

If Real Madrid’s interest is genuine, it presents a dilemma for Inter. Selling Bisseck could provide significant funds for reinforcements, but it also means losing a player who has proven his worth. Inter’s management must weigh the potential benefits against the risks of weakening their defense.

Strategic Defensive Reinforcements

Inter’s primary focus remains on strengthening their defense, especially in light of Buchanan’s injury. The three options presented to Oak Tree Capital reflect a strategic approach: investing in youth, securing a low-cost loan, or finding a suitable free agent. Hermoso, while fitting the technical criteria, poses financial challenges due to his salary demands. Inter’s cautious approach, guided by Oak Tree Capital’s directives, aims to balance the need for quality reinforcements with financial prudence.

Inter Milan’s transfer activities this summer will be closely watched as they navigate the complexities of strengthening their squad while managing financial constraints. The outcomes of these negotiations will significantly impact the team’s performance in the upcoming season, making this a crucial period for the club’s future.