Inter Milan are aiming to make their squad younger and more Italian, with Samuele Ricci, Nicolo Bertola, and Daniel Maldini on their radar.
This according to today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews.
Inter already have a strong core of Italian national team players.
The likes of Nicolo Barella, Alessandro Bastoni, and Federico Dimarco are among the Nerazzurri’s most important players.
Meanwhile, veterans Matteo Darmian and Francesco Acerbi remain nothing less than stalwarts for Inter.
And Davide Frattesi has been continuing his growth in both a Nerazzurri and Azzurri shirt.
But the Inter squad could have an even more Italian flavour in the years to come.
Behind the scenes, the Nerazzurri are big fans of the idea of focusing on Italian players as they look to rejuvenate the squad.
And the idea is not to target veterans or players who have already established themselves.
Rather, Inter are looking to go after young players. That is very much in line with the strategy of Nerazzurri owners Oaktree Capital.
Inter Target Ricci, Bertola & Maldini In Quest For Younger, More Italian Squad
Perhaps the most high profile young Italian transfer target for Inter is Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci.
The 23-year-old has already established himself as a regular for Italy.
That would mean that Ricci would not come cheap. But Inter may be prepared to make the necessary investment.
The Nerazzurri see Ricci as a player who has the necessary qualities to be the long-term heir to Hakan Calhanoglu in holding midfield.
Meanwhile, Inter are also ready to go after young Spezia defender Nicolo Bertola.
At the moment, Bertola’s contract with Spezia runs out at the end of next June.
But rather than waiting to sign Bertola on a free transfer, Inter could move for him in January – and then loan him back to Liguria for the remainder of the season.
Lastly, there is Daniel Maldini.
The Monza man joining Inter would certainly raise eyebrows. He is the son of iconic former AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini.
But despite the connections with their derby rivals, Inter feel that on the pitch Maldini could be just the player they need.