Spezia youngsters Nicolo Bertola and Francesco Pio Esposito could be subjects of an intense transfer battle between Bologna and Inter Milan.
According to Corriere dello Sport via FCInterNews, the Serie A outfits harbor a genuine interest in the up-and-coming Aquilotti duo.
Inter’s interest in Nicolo Bertola is long-standing.
With the 21-year-old’s contract at Stadio Alberto Picco expiring in 2025, Beppe Marotta has already laid the groundwork for his arrival.
Talks between Spezia and the Nerazzurri over the young defender’s switch to Giuseppe Meazza are ongoing.
Although Inter initially planned to sign Bertola on a Bosman deal, they’re now eager to snap him up in January.
Therefore, they’ve recently intensified negotiations with Luca D’Angelo’s side.
However, Bologna could spoil Inter’s effort.
Rossoblu sporting director Marco Di Vaio is reportedly a big-time admirer of Bertola.
Indeed, he has frequently visited Spezia’s matches in Serie B to watch the Italian defender first-hand.
Moreover, Giovanni Sartori went to Empoli to observe the young gun during Italy U-21’s match against France.
Inter Milan & Bologna Embroiled In Double Transfer Battle For Spezia Youngsters Bertola & Esposito
Despite Bologna’s growing interest, Bertola is keen to join Inter.
However, he could end up at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.
Inter and Bologna could agree on an identical deal, which saw Giovanni Fabbian swap allegiances last summer.
In addition to Bertola, Vincenzo Italiano’s men have set sights on another Inter starlet.
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has caught Bologna’s eye.
Currently on loan at Sampdoria, the talented midfielder has gone from strength to strength in Serie B this term.
As for Pio Esposito, his potential is well-documented.
At 19, he’s one of Italy’s most prodigious center-forwards.
Therefore, Inter are reluctant to let him leave permanently despite extending his loan at Spezia this summer.
But Esposito’s impressive showings in the second tier have earned him a host of admirers, including Bologna.