Inter Milan have reportedly identified AZ Alkmaar wingback Yukinari Sugawara as their favorite candidate to replace Denzel Dumfries.
The Nerazzurri may have to sign a new right wingback this summer, especially if the Dutchman were to leave.
The 27-year-old’s contract will expire in 2025, and the management has thus far failed to convince him to sign a new deal.
Inter are offering Dumfries a net salary of 4 million euros, while the latter is holding out for larger figures.
So unless the two parties manage to find a breakthrough in the coming weeks, the Italian champions will place the Netherlands international on the market.
That’s because they don’t fancy losing his services for free like Milan Skriniar last summer.
In this case, Inter will explore the market looking for a replacement.
According to Tuttosport via FcInter1908, the Nerazzurri have placed Sugawara on top of their shortlist.
The 24-year-old is a Japan international who has been plying his trade at Alkmaar since 2019.
The source describes him as a fast and explosive wingback with attacking prowess. This is illustrated by his seasonal stats, as he has contributed with four goals and nine assists in 42 appearances this term.
The Turin-based newspaper believes the player’s value is circa 15 million euros.
Inter Milan Place Yukinara Sugawara On Top Of Their Shortlist
Moreover, Suguwara’s contract will expire in 2025, so the Nerazzurri might be able to drive his price further down.
The source also mentions Atalanta’s Emil Holm as another option for the role. La Dea have the option to sign the 24-year-old on a permanent basis from Spezia for 8.3 million euros.
The Sweden international had his highs and lows this season and couldn’t carve himself a regular spot in the starting formation.
Therefore, the report insists that Sugawara is the wingback who entices the Nerazzurri more than any other.
