Inter Milan are thinking about a move for Porto striker Mehdi Taremi, either in the January transfer window or next summer.
Today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, identify the performances of Alexis Sanchez and Marko Arnautovic, and Porto’s willingness to sell as key factors in the timing of a move.
The Gazzetta emphasize that the contacts between Inter and Taremi’s representatives are now ongoing.
The fact that the 31-year-old Iranian international’s contract with Porto expires at the end of June is the aspect that’s really gotten the Nerazzurri on red alert.
Porto’s President has already all but confirmed that Taremi will not extend his contract.
Therefore the only question is whether the Portuguese giants will cash in in January or see the Iranian leave for free in a few months’ time.
Two Key Factors In Timing Of Inter Pursuit Of Mehdi Taremi
As far as when Inter will make their move, there are two main factors.
The first concerns the performances of the forwards that are already in the Nerazzurri squad.
It’s now December. And there are still doubts about the contributions of Sanchez and Arnautovic.
The two veterans arrived during the summer, after Inter temporarily gave up on signing Taremi.
But with fitness issues affecting both in periods, neither have yet shown that they can provide a top-class deputy option for starting duo Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram.
Both Arnautovic and Sanchez were on the scoresheet in Inter’s memorable comeback draw against Benfica. But that is not the response Inter expect on its own.
Therefore if the situation with Arnautovic and Sanchez doesn’t change, Inter could act next month.
Then, it would be down to whether Porto will listen to offers for Taremi.
Naturally, the Portuguese team will have to balance financial concerns with those of the pitch.
If Porto will listen to reasonable offers, Inter may well go for it. But on the other hand, if that proves unattainable, they could wait until next summer.
