Inter Milan have made contact with the agent of Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori as they plan for the possibility of Alessandro Bastoni leaving for Barcelona this summer, though the move would be far from straightforward.
The contact with Alessandro Lucci, Calafiori’s representative, also covered the situation of Luca Di Maggio, currently on loan at Padova, who could attract Serie A and Serie B interest in the summer. But the Calafiori conversation was significant in its own right.
According to FCInterNews, Inter view the former Bologna left-footer as the ideal replacement should Bastoni depart.
He is Italy-capped, technically excellent and already proven at the highest level.
Arsenal Reluctance And High Cost Make Calafiori A Difficult Target For Inter As Bastoni Departure A Possibility
The obstacles are significant, however.
Arsenal have no intention of selling Calafiori at this stage, and even if their position changed, the combined cost of a transfer fee and salary would represent a major financial commitment for Inter.
The move remains a dream rather than an imminent reality.
Regardless of Bastoni’s future, Inter are already working on other defensive additions.
Solet of Udinese leads the shortlist for one position, versatile, athletic and capable of covering all three roles in a back three.
Muharemovic of Sassuolo is also a candidate, though his limited experience in a back three makes him a riskier proposition.
Inter plan to bring in just one of the two, with Solet currently ahead.
What is certain is that next season’s Inter defence will feature several new faces.