Inter are set to sign Udinese defender Oumar Solet on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy, according to reports from Italy. Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio confirmed on Sunday that the club intends to add a defender during the transfer window, particularly with the contracts of Darmian and Acerbi expiring.
Ausilio’s comments indicate that discussions with Inter’s assistant coach Cristian Chivu have already taken place regarding defensive reinforcements. Inter’s current central defensive options include Bastoni, Bisseck – who has attracted interest from Bayern Munich – Carlos Augusto, and De Vrij, though De Vrij’s situation is complicated by his expiring contract. Pavard is not currently part of the club’s plans.
The pursuit of Solet is described as a necessity for Inter, particularly after recent off-field issues involving the player have been resolved. The 24-year-old’s current contract with Udinese runs until 2027, and he is expected to sign a contract extension with Udinese as part of the agreement, facilitating the loan move. Solet is anticipated to sign a five-year contract with Inter, earning €2.5 million per season.
Negotiations are ongoing regarding the final transfer fee, with a discrepancy between Inter’s valuation and Udinese’s. However, sources suggest that the deal is likely to be completed. Inter are also pursuing Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, though that transfer is proving more challenging due to Liverpool’s demands. Jones has reportedly given his word to Chivu and is unwilling to renew his contract at Anfield, which expires in 2027. Liverpool are seeking €30 million plus a percentage of any future sale, a figure Inter consider excessive given Jones’s contract situation. The arrival of Arne Slot as Liverpool manager has not altered the situation.
The addition of Solet would bolster Inter’s defensive depth, while a potential move for Jones would add further quality to the midfield. Both transfers signal Inter’s ambition to maintain their competitiveness in Serie A.
