Inter Milan’s interest in Bento is cooling as Premier League interest raises the Brazilian’s price tag, with Genoa’s Josep Martinez emerging as the alternative.
This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews.
One of Inter’s main priorities for the summer transfer window is to sign a goalkeeper.
The Nerazzurri’s plan is clear. They want to sign a young keeper who will initially be the backup to Yann Sommer in goal.
Then, after a season as the deputy to Sommer, the new keeper would be capable of inheriting the starting role.
And there is one profile in particular who Inter have made their main target in goal.
The Nerazzurri have been keen on Athletico Paranaense keeper Bento since last summer.
However, a deal for the 24-year-old may not be in reach for Inter financially.
That is because of the increasing interest in Bento from the Premier League.
The Gazzetta report that Athletico are not going to consider going below their €20 million valuation for Bento. Far from it, with big English clubs in the race, that price tag may rise even higher.
Inter Cool Bento Interest – Josep Martinez The Alternative
Even if Inter are to miss out on Bento, however, their plan would remain the same in goal.
The Nerazzurri are targeting a young keeper who is capable of becoming the starter for years to come.
And the main alternative to Bento to have emerged is Genoa keeper Martinez.
The 25-year-old former RB Leipzig keeper has enjoyed a very positive first season in Serie A with the Grifone.
Like Bento, Martinez would cost in the region of €20 million.
But unlike the Brazilian, Martinez could be attainable via a deal that would be favourably structured for Inter.
Athletico would have no intention of accepting any player-plus-cash bids, nor will they sell Bento on an initial loan deal. With the Premier League in the picture, they want straight cash.
On the other hand, Genoa would be willing to negotiate on the formula of a deal for Martinez with Inter.
