Inter Milan to Trigger Squad Revolution with New Signings & System Change
Inter Milan are planning a significant squad overhaul this summer, with manager Cristian Chivu set to sign a new contract and oversee a tactical revolution, according to reports. The new project will see the club shift to a 4-3-2-1 formation, moving away from the three-man defense that has been a hallmark of the recent era.
Chivu, who is expected to sign a one-year contract extension until 2028, has been instrumental in Inter's charge towards a 21st league title this season. However, the club's leadership, led by sporting directors Beppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio, is now preparing to back his vision for a more dynamic, vertical style of play. The club's new American owners, Oaktree, are set to provide a transfer budget, with a base figure of around €40 million, though significant funds are expected to be raised through player sales.
The tactical shift to a 4-3-2-1 formation is central to the new project. The club has identified key targets to fit this system, with Borussia Mönchengladbach's Manu Koné a primary target to reinforce the midfield. The 22-year-old French midfielder has been a long-term target for Inter, with a previous move blocked last summer. The club also retains a strong interest in bringing winger Moussa Diaby, currently at Al-Ittihad, back to European football.
To facilitate this revolution, a significant squad overhaul is anticipated. Several high-profile players are expected to depart, either due to expiring contracts or to generate transfer revenue. Veterans like Yann Sommer, Francesco Acerbi, Stefan de Vrij, Matteo Darmian, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are out of contract, while the potential sales of key assets could fund the rebuild. Defender Alessandro Bastoni is a prime candidate for a major sale, with Barcelona reportedly interested, and could command a fee in excess of €50 million. Other players like Denzel Dumfries, Davide Frattesi, and Carlos Augusto could also be sold to raise funds.
In addition to Koné, Inter are targeting a new goalkeeper, with Guglielmo Vicario a strong candidate, and a new right-back, with Torino's Raoul Bellanova a favored option. Defensive reinforcements are also planned, with Lazio's Mario Gila and Udinese's Oumar Solet on the radar. The attacking line is also under review, with Marcus Thuram's future uncertain if a major offer arrives, while Lautaro Martinez and Pio Esposito are considered untouchable. The future of Hakan Calhanoglu, who has interest from Turkey and a contract expiring in 2025, is another key decision for the club's management.
This planned overhaul, driven by Chivu and the sporting directors, signals a clear intent from Inter to modernize their squad and playing style, moving away from the 3-5-2 system that has defined their recent success in pursuit of a more dynamic and vertical style of football for the future.
