Inter Milan have turned their attention to Atalanta winger Marco Palestra after their pursuit of Real Madrid’s Nico Paz appears to have ended, according to reports in Italy. The Nerazzurri had hoped to secure Paz, but the player’s potential involvement in Real Madrid’s pre-season and a loan extension with Como have effectively ended their chances.
Real Madrid are reportedly willing to extend Paz’s loan at Como for another season, with an option to buy set at €10 million in 2027 – an increase from the current €9 million valuation. This decision was influenced by Como’s qualification for the Champions League, allowing Real Madrid to further assess Paz’s development at a higher level. Inter, despite maintaining a good relationship with Paz’s family, were aware of the difficulty in convincing Real Madrid to part ways with the 21-year-old.
As a result, Inter’s sporting directors, Beppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio, are now prioritizing a move for Palestra. The 23-year-old recently returned to Atalanta from a loan spell at Cagliari, and the club is known for being difficult negotiators, as evidenced by Inter’s previous pursuit of Ademola Lookman. However, Atalanta’s lack of Champions League football next season could potentially facilitate a deal.
Atalanta are expected to demand a fee of at least €40 million for Palestra. Inter are simultaneously aiming to strengthen their defense and midfield, with Manu Koné and Curtis Jones identified as key targets, potentially costing around €60 million combined. To fund these acquisitions, Inter will likely need to generate revenue through player sales, with Davide Frattesi and Luis Henrique potential candidates to depart. The pursuit of Palestra is not contingent on the sale of Denzel Dumfries, though the Dutch international’s potential departure – with a reported €25 million release clause – would make the move for Palestra more straightforward.
Elsewhere, Inter are also progressing with contract negotiations with Stefan De Vrij, with club officials scheduled to meet with his agent, Federico Pastorello, in France. Young midfielder Yannis Massolin, signed from Modena in January for €3.5 million, will participate in Inter’s pre-season training camp and a decision regarding a potential loan spell will be made at the end of August.
