Inter Milan could hand a surprise start to French midfielder Diouf when they face Lecce, as Cristian Chivu weighs up forced changes and squad rotation.

Nicolò Barella is suspended and Hakan Calhanoglu is sidelined through injury and suspension.

Therefore, Inter’s midfield options are stretched heading into the trip to Puglia, as per Tuttosport, via FCInterNews.

According to the reports, Marcus Thuram is certain to lead the line, potentially alongside Ange-Yoan Bonny.

However, Francesco Pio Esposito remains an alternative, especially with one eye on the upcoming Champions League clash against Bodo/Glimt.

Lecce Vs Inter Milan – Zielinski Fit, Diouf Could Start

Andy Diouf Inter Milan
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Cristian Chivu, head coach of Inter (right), celebrates with Andy Diouf of Inter after the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

In midfield, Piotr Zielinski will be assessed but is not considered a major concern.

Should he be rested or only partially fit, Henrikh Mkhitaryan could drop deeper into a regista role.

Meanwhile, Davide Frattesi is expected to return to the starting lineup.

While Diouf is currently favored to complete the trio ahead of other options.

On the flanks, Luis Henrique and Federico Dimarco are set to start.

Indeed, with Bisseck, De Vrij, and either Carlos Augusto or Darmian forming the back three in front of Sommer.