Inter are nearing an agreement to sign Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel as a backup to new number one, Pepo Martinez, according to reports in Italy. Talks with Provedel’s agent, Gianni Rava, have been positive, with the clubs now working to finalize a fee for the player.
The move for Provedel comes as Inter prepare for the departure of Yann Sommer at the end of his contract on June 30th. While Arsenal’s Kepa Arrizabalaga was previously considered, the Nerazzurri have prioritized Provedel as a more suitable understudy to Martinez. Lazio are reportedly becoming more willing to negotiate a lower fee, recognizing Provedel’s contract expires next year and he has lost his starting position following a lengthy injury.
Initially, Lazio president Claudio Lotito was seeking around €5 million for Provedel, but Inter are hoping to secure him for between €2-3 million. The potential arrival of Christos Mandas, currently on loan at Bournemouth, could further incentivize Lazio to accept a lower offer, as Mandas is expected to return and compete for the starting role. Provedel has reportedly been receptive to the move, even accepting a backup role, due to the opportunity to join a club competing at a high level.
Meanwhile, Sommer is attracting interest from Ajax in the Netherlands. The Dutch club are seeking a new goalkeeper after their current number one, Jaros, finished the season injured and will return to Liverpool. Sommer has expressed his desire to continue playing for at least two more seasons, and Ajax could offer him a starting position. Sommer has already bid farewell to his Inter teammates and is preparing to leave Milan, potentially paving the way for Provedel’s arrival as his replacement.
