Club Brugge managing director Vincent Mannaert reveals the figures behind the transfer of Tajon Buchanan to Inter Milan, in addition to the interest of Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.
The Nerazzurri officially unveiled the 24-year-old as their first January signing on Friday. He joins the club as a replacement for the injured Juan Cuadrado.
The Canada international first caught the attention of the Inter directors during the 2022 World Cup.
The winger arrives to bolster Simone Inzaghi’s right flank. But he’s capable of filling various roles across the pitch.
For his part, Club Brugge director Mannaert revealed how much his club received from selling Buchanan.
He told The Athletic that the Serie A giants have splashed 8.5 million euros to secure the services of the Canadian on a permanent basis. This figure could rise to 10 or 11 million depending on performance-related bonuses.
Meanwhile, Buchanan’s former club New England Revolution will collect 10% as a sell-on fee.
Mannaert also discussed some of the player’s best traits, including his lightning pace and dribbling skills. He also explained how Club Brugge primarily focused on helping Buchanan become a team player.
“He’s lightning quick. He’s strong. He has the will to win. The main development point was the tactical side and the connectivity with his teammates,”
“He was trying to win every man-to-man duel without being really connected to the other 10 players on his team.
“That was a challenge for us. We needed to connect him and help him learn how to read games. The moment he was open to integrating all that information was the moment he flourished.”
Club Brugge Director Explains How Inter Milan Pipped Aston Villa & Crystal Palace For Tajon Buchanan
The Brugge director also revealed that Premier League sides Aston Villa and Crystal Palace were on Buchanan’s trail.
However, Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio acted swiftly and decisively to put the deal over the line.
“Inter Milan’s interest became very active over the last month.
“When there is direct club-to-club contact, you know it’s serious. Teams like Inter and other top teams know how we work.
“At a certain point, Piero just organized contact between us and he expressed his willingness to negotiate and his ambition to get the deal done.”
Finally, Mannaert explained how Buchanan maintained a professional stance despite his disappointment over missing out on a summer transfer.
“Tajon was, of course, a bit disappointed because the summer window did not beat a transfer. But during the last six months, he behaved in a very professional manner.
“We are very clear with profiles like Tajon. The aim is to transfer him to a big league. And so it takes away a lot of stress because this approach helps in avoiding conflicts between us the players.
“We want them to leave on a positive note because it’s part of our business model.”
