Inter Milan have shifted their focus to Curtis Jones of Liverpool and Jean-Victor Solet of Udinese following the unexpected collapse of a deal for Argentine defender Nehuén Palestra, according to reports in Italy. The Serie A champions are determined to strengthen their squad despite the disappointment of missing out on Palestra, who has reportedly agreed terms with Chelsea.
Inter’s sporting director, Piero Ausilio, has been tasked with securing replacements, with goalkeeper Alessandro Provedel of Lazio also a key target. The club anticipates finalizing a deal for Provedel this week, with the player expected in Milan for medical examinations and to sign his contract. Provedel is intended to serve as a backup to Inter’s current number one, Emiliano Martinez.
Solet has emerged as a priority for Inter’s defensive reinforcements, particularly as they prepare for the departures of Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij. The 26-year-old Frenchman is viewed as a modern and versatile defender, possessing both technical ability and ambition. Inter have made significant progress in negotiations with Udinese, though a gap remains between their offer of around €23 million and Udinese’s valuation of between €25 and €30 million. The club remains optimistic, citing Solet’s strong desire to join Inter, a sentiment he reportedly discussed with former Inter striker Adriano during a recent vacation in Brazil.
Negotiations for Jones are proving more challenging, with Liverpool demanding approximately £30 million for the midfielder. Inter’s current offer stands around £20 million, creating a substantial difference in valuation. However, Inter believe they can bridge the gap, leveraging Jones’s own eagerness to move to Milan and begin a new chapter in his career. Jones’s contract at Liverpool expires next June, which Inter hopes will strengthen their negotiating position as the transfer window progresses. The midfielder has spent his entire career with Liverpool, and a move to Italy would represent a significant change for the player.
The acquisition of these players would provide manager Cristian Chivu with valuable depth and quality as Inter aim to defend their Serie A title and compete in the Champions League.
