Inter Milan are prepared to sell winger Luis Henrique this summer, according to reports in Italy. The club has instead been impressed with the development of Andy Diouf, who is expected to remain with the Nerazzurri and develop into a starting player.
Both Henrique and Diouf arrived at Inter last summer, with each player costing the club approximately €25 million. Henrique was initially brought in as cover for Denzel Dumfries at right wing-back, but struggled to replicate the Dutchman’s impact during a four-month period when Dumfries was injured. While he fulfilled a tactical role for coach Simone Inzaghi, the difference in quality between the two players was apparent upon Dumfries’ return.
Diouf, meanwhile, had a slower start to life in Milan, but recently showed promise towards the end of the season. He scored his first Serie A goal in the final match against Bologna, earning praise from Inter Primavera coach Francesco Chivu. The club now sees a future for the 23-year-old as a dynamic, attacking full-back, with plans to further develop his skills in that position next season.
Inter were previously approached by Bournemouth for Henrique in January, but were unable to find a suitable replacement at the time. However, the club’s stance has shifted, and they are now open to selling the Brazilian for a fee of around €30 million. Several English clubs are reportedly still interested. The potential sale of Henrique could also open the door for Inter to pursue other targets, including Marco Palestra, and may even lead to offers for Dumfries, who has a release clause of €25 million.
The change in direction regarding Henrique and Diouf represents a strategic shift for Inter, as they look to solidify their options at wing-back for the upcoming season. This restructuring could allow Chivu to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for both domestic and European honors.
