Inter Milan is actively pursuing Romanian wingback Nicola Zalewski, reinforcing their plans for the January transfer window. The club is particularly interested in Zalewski as they look to replace Tajon Buchanan, who is set to join Villarreal on loan. Zalewski, currently with AS Roma, has become the top choice for Inter, with Cristiano Biraghi as their backup option.
The 23-year-old Zalewski has long been viewed as surplus to requirements at Roma. Throughout the past summer transfer window, there were discussions about his potential exit due to his contract situation, which is set to end next June. Despite interest from multiple clubs, including Galatasaray, Zalewski opted to stay put until now.
Now, with the January window closing quickly, this might be Roma's last opportunity to cash out on Zalewski. Reports indicate Inter's clear intent to make the move happen, as they view him not only as the ideal replacement for Buchanan but also as part of their wider strategy to rejuvenate their squad. With the ownership under Oaktree Capital focusing on reducing the average age of the team, signing younger talents like Zalewski fits perfectly.
Roma, acknowledging the urgent need to act, might sell Zalewski outright for around €500,000, as indicated by Corriere dello Sport. Alternatively, Roma could extend his contract and send him to Inter on loan, potentially including a purchase option worth €6-7 million for the summer.
Meanwhile, Inter President Beppe Marotta confirmed the team's strategic focus at this moment. "Our evaluations...have focused on players who have not found much space...we have found a place for them on the way out," Marotta said, noting the club’s approach to fill their ranks with talent under the right fit without disruptions to their existing structure. Marotta emphasized the club's aim to attract players who can integrate smoothly and add value to the team's established dynamic.
On the flip side, West Ham has made headlines with their approach for Samuele Esposito, demonstrating their interest through an opening bid. Inter, confident with the player’s potential, dismissed the offer outright, making it known through FcInterNews.it there is no intention to negotiate his departure before the transfer market closes. The club's firm stance showcases their commitment to retaining talented young players who can contribute to their long-term goals.
Despite numerous offers swirling around their young talents, Inter is fixed on their course of actions this window, emphasizing recruitment strategies centered around youth and potential, contrary to picks for immediate experience.
With Transfer Window Day approaching, the pressure mounts on clubs to finalize their rosters. Inter Milan currently holds the reins on two significant deals: one with Zalewski and the other with Esposito. They stand at crossroads; either to execute pivotal transactions to solidify their team for the remainder of the season or pivot based on last-minute opportunities.
This window is not only about immediate changes but laying the groundwork for enduring success. Their pursuit of prospects like Zalewski indicates their commitment to long-term strategies rather than mere short-term fixes. Observers will be watching closely as the clock ticks down on January 31, 2025, to see how these ambitions pan out.