Inter Milan linked Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly could still decide to join Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal this summer.

This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, who report that unlike Romelu Lukaku, the 31-year-old former Napoli star isn’t necessarily going to resist the Saudi club’s offer and push for a Nerazzurri loan.

Inter are keen to try and sign out-of-favour Chelsea defender Koulibaly this summer.

The Nerazzurri see the Senegalese international as a potential replacement for Milan Skriniar. They believe that the player’s status at Stamford Bridge could allow them to swoop in.

Inter want Koulibaly on loan. Despite the fact that the player only arrived at Chelsea last summer in a big money move, the Nerazzurri feel that they could very well bring him in on loan, maybe even with the Blues paying part of his wages.

The Blues, naturally, are not so enthused about the possibility of such an operation.

They would prefer a permanent sale of the defender.

Inter Linked Chelsea Star Koulibaly Could Accept Al-Hilal Move

A recent report from France suggested that Koulibaly wants to stay in European football. The report stated that the 31-year-old turned down a huge cash offer from Al-Ittihiad.

Should Koulibaly prioritize remaining in Europe, Inter aren’t his only options. German champions Bayern Munich are reportedly also thinking about a move.

However, the player’s preference is reportedly a return to Serie A. He wants Inter in particular.

However, unlike striker Romelu Lukaku, Koulibaly will not likely be nearly as insistent on making the loan move to the Nerazzurri.

Accordingly, Inter won’t have the same leverage to push Chelsea to agree a loan deal.

Chelsea will thusly hardly be keen to sit down and agree a loan deal in which they pay part of Koulibaly’s wages.

Naturally, the Blues would prefer a huge money offer from a Saudi club. This would both ensure that they aren’t having to subsidize Koulibaly’s wages, and entail a permanent departure for the Senegalese on a transfer fee.

According to the Gazzetta, Koulibaly could be swayed to join Al-Hilal, unlike Lukaku.