French defender Oumar Solet is poised to join Inter Milan from Udinese on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy, according to reports in Italy. The move comes as Inter look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the upcoming season and a return to Champions League football.
Solet began his career as a midfielder before being repositioned to defence while playing for Stade Lavallois in the French third division in 2017, and later with Lyon’s reserve team. The 24-year-old has cited Ronaldinho, Sergio Ramos, Paul Pogba, and Lilian Thuram as players who inspired him, and he expressed excitement at the possibility of playing alongside Marcus Thuram at Inter.
He joined Udinese in September 2023 after leaving Red Bull Salzburg, where he had played for four years. Despite initially waiting for his debut until January, Solet quickly became a key player for Udinese, making 57 appearances and contributing with four goals and three assists. He distinguished himself as a proactive defender, leading Serie A central defenders in progressive carries and ranking fourth in total passes completed last season.
The transfer is structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, a move designed to address financial considerations for both clubs. Inter will initially pay a loan fee of around €2.4 million, while Udinese will renew Solet’s contract – currently expiring in June 2027 – to ensure they receive a suitable transfer fee. Udinese value Solet at approximately €25 million. The obligation to buy is reportedly structured in a way that makes it effectively a permanent transfer.
Inter are also considering the futures of other defenders, including Stefan de Vrij, who has been offered a contract extension, and Alessandro Bastoni, whose potential departure could prompt a move for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Tuta. The club is also evaluating options in goal and at right-back, but strengthening the centre of defence appears to be a priority. Solet’s arrival would provide competition and depth in that position, potentially solidifying Inter’s backline as they aim to defend their Serie A title and compete in Europe.
