Inter Milan eye Udinese's Solet as legal case nears resolution

Inter Milan are preparing to reignite their pursuit of Udinese defender Oumar Solet after prosecutors requested the dismissal of sexual assault charges against the French centre-back. The 23-year-old is expected to be cleared at an 8 April court hearing in Udine, removing a key obstacle that stalled multiple transfer approaches last summer.

Solet remained at Udinese after two Serie A clubs and three Premier League sides withdrew interest due to the pending legal case. Despite the off-field turmoil, he has established himself as one of Italy's most reliable defenders this season, starting 21 league matches. Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio has tracked the former Lyon prospect since his Red Bull Salzburg days, with the Nerazzurri maintaining contact despite last year's hesitation.

Club CEO Giuseppe Marotta reportedly insisted on resolving legal uncertainties before committing to a move. With prosecutors now seeking case closure, Inter aim to accelerate talks with Solet's representatives after Easter. The defender's versatility in Udinese's back three system aligns with Simone Inzaghi's tactical preferences, while his age profile fits Inter's defensive rejuvenation plans.

Udinese could demand a significant fee for their key defender, though Inter hope to avoid a summer bidding war. The Nerazzurri are also monitoring Sassuolo's Kaan Ayhan and Club Brugge's Jorne Spileers, but consider Solet their primary target. His potential arrival would bolster a defense needing younger options, with Milan Skriniar's 2023 departure still impacting the squad depth.