It’s not yet a foregone conclusion that Samir Handanovic will leave Inter Milan this summer.
This according to today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, who report that the 38-year-old could still decide to stay and sign a new contract, and that his decision will partly be based on who the first-choice goalkeeper at the club is next season.
Nerazzurri captain Handanovic sees his contract run out in just a few days.
Should the Slovenian not agree a new deal with the club, he will depart after eleven years of service.
Handanovic joined Inter from Udinese during the summer of 2012. For the majority of that time, he has been the unquestioned first-choice option in goal.
Moreover, over the past few seasons the Slovenian has worn the captain’s armband for the Nerazzurri. He inherited the armband from Mauro Icardi.
Samir Handanovic Decision Depends On Who Inter Milan Starting Goalkeeper Is
According to Tuttosport, a big part of Handanovic’s decision on his future will revolve around who the starting goalkeeper is next season.
The Slovenian certainly wouldn’t be the regular starter if he stays. One way or the other, Handanovic would remain in a backup role and stay mainly for his behind-the-scenes leadership rather than contributions on the pitch.
During the season just gone, Andre Onana’s arrival signalled the end of the captain’s starting days.
Whilst Handanovic began the season as Number One, the Cameroonian found his feet quickly.
Therefore, whilst the captain helped Onana settle in, the 27-year-old ex-Ajax keeper was the first-choice starter.
However, Onana could already leave the club after just one season. Manchester United are reportedly keen to sign the Cameroonian.
If Onana leaves, young Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is reportedly on Inter’s radar to replace him.
One way or the other, however, the question of who the Number One is next season will impact Handanovic’s decision significantly.
