Inter Milan have reportedly pinpointed Tomas Palacios as the main candidate to bolster their defensive ranks, while Mikayil Faye is the Plan B.
The Nerazzurri are still on the lookout for a new left-footed centre-back who can act as Alessandro Bastoni’s understudy.
The club’s owners Oaktree Capital decided to snub experienced profiles like Ricardo Rodriguez and Mario Hermoso.
Instead, the US-based investment group prefers to add a young profile whose value can increase over time. In other words, they’re hoping that Beppe Marotta and Pierro Ausilio can find a new Yann Bisseck.
In recent days, Palacios and Faye emerged as the latest candidates for the role.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport via FcInterNews, Palacios is the Italian champions’ new priority to bolster the backline.
The 21-year-old is a youth product of Talleres who is currently playing for Independiente on loan. This temporary stint will expire at the end of December.
Afterwards, the Argentine will return to Talleres. His contract with his parent club runs until the end of 2025.
Inter will reportedly offer €5 million for the Argentina U20 starlet in the coming days. However, the source warns the Serie A giants about competition from RB Leipzig who will try to lure the young defender to Germany.
Inter Milan Looking To Sign Tomas Palacios – Barcelona’s Mikayil Faye The Backup Plan
The Pink newspaper adds that the main alternative for Palacios is Barcelona’s Faye.
The 20-year-old is also a left-footed central defender who can feature at left-back as well. He has been developing his game at the Catalan club’s youth ranks since the summer of 2023.
The youngster has already made his senior international debut for Senegal last month.
However, Faye would cost Inter a larger sum compared to Palacios. The source believes the Blaugrana are seeking €15 million.
The Sedhiou native’s contract with Barcelona runs until June 2027.
