Inter Milan maintain strong interest in Udinese defender Oumar Solet
Inter Milan are continuing to monitor Udinese defender Oumar Solet as they plan a significant defensive overhaul this summer, according to reports from Italy. The Nerazzurri's sporting directors have identified the French centre-back as a primary target, with Udinese understood to have set an informal asking price in the region of 20 to 25 million euros. Any deal would be contingent on an offer meeting that valuation, following a gentleman's agreement between the player and his current club.
This interest comes amid an impending defensive revolution at Inter, with the contracts of veterans Francesco Acerbi, Stefan de Vrij, and Matteo Darmian all set to expire on June 30. While De Vrij could still renew on reduced terms, the club is actively seeking at least two new central defenders. The first is widely expected to be Sassuolo's Tarik Muharemovic, with an agreement in principle reportedly already in place. Solet represents a key option for the second slot, with Inter's scouting department having already conducted a thorough profile assessment.
The potential move makes strategic sense for both clubs. For Inter, the 24-year-old Solet offers a profile of a physically robust, ball-playing defender who fits their system and can contribute immediately while also having resale value. For Udinese, a sale at the reported figure would represent pure capital gain, as the player was acquired from Red Bull Salzburg on a free transfer. The Friulian club is believed to be open to a significant sale this summer, with Solet considered the most likely departure ahead of other assets like Brenner or Lautaro Giannetti.
Solet's career context adds intrigue to the link. After a difficult period with injuries at Salzburg, he chose Udinese as a platform for revival last summer, turning down other offers out of a sense of gratitude for the club's faith. His subsequent performances have validated that choice, establishing him as a reliable Serie A defender. The reported pact with Udinese indicates that, should an appropriate offer arrive that benefits the club, he would be allowed to depart amicably, clearing the path for a negotiation.
From Inter's perspective, securing a defender of Solet's age and potential would address both immediate depth concerns and long-term planning, especially with the possible departure of Alessandro Bastoni also a background consideration amid interest from Barcelona. The financial aspect is crucial, as the club looks to reinvest the significant savings from expiring high-wage contracts into younger assets. Should the move materialize, it would signal a clear shift towards a younger defensive line under coach Simone Inzaghi, blending new signings with existing pieces like Bastoni and Benjamin Pavard.
