Inter are still looking to extend the contract of Ivan Perisic, who they still see as an important player within the squad despite the arrival of Robin Gosens during the January transfer window.
This according to Nerazzurri CEO Beppe Marotta, who spoke to Italian broadcaster DAZN ahead of the match and explained the nature of the situation with the two left wing-backs, and also update that Marcelo Brozovic intends to renew with the club soon.
Gosens was brought in from Atalanta on an initial loan deal which should become a permanent deal until 2026 when certain conditions are met, and the German looks set to play a significant role on the left for seasons to come.
However, Perisic has also been in fine form in the position so far this season, starting in this evening’s derby clash with AC Milan once again.
According to Marotta, the club are fine with having two quality options in the position, and the signing of Gosens doesn’t affect their decision-making with respect to Perisic’s situation.
“On the left we took advantage of an opportunity,” he said of the signing of Gosens, “we thank the owners for allowing us to make an important investment.”
He went on that “Now the squad is more competitive, but it was already at a high level initially.”
Of the possibility that Perisic could also be played at right wing-back with Gosens in the team, Marotta said that “He is a serious professional, he could also be used on the right. In Inzaghi’s game the wing-back is a key piece.”
“The purchase of Gosens is not to restrict Perisic’s opportunities,” he emphasized, “it’s about giving Inzaghi another quality player.”
Of Brozovic’s situation, Marotta stated that “The desire from both sides is to continue on together, this is the official confirmation. We’re working to find a solution. We hope we can close quickly, it’s what everyone wants.”
Asked whether he thought that Milan Skriniar could eventually be made captain, the executive explained that “The love of the fans is one important aspect, but it’s not something we’ve seriously considered yet.”
“There are many profiles in the team who have the qualities needed in a good captain,” Marotta emphaszied. “There will be time to think about it. For now, we’re happy with Handanovic and hope he stays on for a while. We want to continue with him.”
And of this evening’s derby clash with AC Milan, Marotta sayd that “Today is a special match, we hope it will be a great advertisement for Italian football.”
“There are still 45 points up for grabs,” he was keen to emphasized, “any result we get will not be final.”
He went on to make the point that “We’re facing this match with an awareness of what it means, we want to get the better of it for pride, and we want to continue the march that’s led us to the top of the standings.”
