Cristian Chivu has identified Marco Palestra as a priority target, with Inter prepared to invest heavily in the young Italian wing-back while uncertainty grows around Denzel Dumfries’ future.
FC Internazionale Milano are preparing for a major shake-up on the flanks, and all signs point toward Marco Palestra becoming the centerpiece of the club’s next project.
According to reports in Italy, Inter are willing to push close to €40 million to convince Atalanta BC to part ways with the highly rated 21-year-old, who spent last season gaining valuable Serie A experience at Cagliari Calcio.
New manager Cristian Chivu is said to be a huge admirer of Palestra’s athleticism and versatility, believing the Italian international can immediately elevate the squad with his pace and ability to operate on either flank.
At first glance, such a massive investment may seem surprising considering Inter already have Denzel Dumfries in that role. But inside the club there is growing concern that the Dutchman could activate the €25 million release clause included in his contract, which runs through 2028.
Rather than waiting for developments, Inter appear determined to move early and secure a long-term replacement before Europe’s biggest clubs enter the race for Dumfries.
The move would also align perfectly with the financial strategy promoted by ownership group Oaktree Capital Management. Dumfries is now 30 years old and reportedly earns around €4 million net per season, while Palestra is younger, significantly cheaper, and viewed as a player with major resale potential.
From a financial perspective, the operation makes sense on multiple levels. Inter could collect almost pure capital gains from a Dumfries sale while simultaneously lowering the wage bill and rejuvenating the squad.
Still, negotiations with Atalanta will not be easy. The Bergamo club are under no pressure to sell and are expected to demand well beyond the initial €40 million proposal. Inter are also trying to avoid another tense transfer saga similar to last summer’s Ademola Lookman situation.
Palestra’s arrival would also provide cover for potential changes on the opposite flank. Carlos Augusto has yet to extend his contract beyond 2028 and has attracted interest from abroad, making the young Italian even more valuable because of his tactical flexibility.
Meanwhile, several other outgoing moves are beginning to take shape at San Siro.
Brazilian winger Luis Henrique is no longer considered central to the project after an inconsistent campaign. Premier League and La Liga clubs are reportedly monitoring the situation, with Inter hoping to recover a fee close to the €25 million paid to Olympique de Marseille.
In midfield, Davide Frattesi could also be on his way out after a disappointing season. A return to AS Roma has been discussed, potentially involving Manu Koné, although Premier League clubs — including Nottingham Forest FC — are believed to be leading the race.
To replace Frattesi, Inter are again looking toward England. Curtis Jones of Liverpool FC has re-emerged as a serious target after initial contacts in January. Sporting director Piero Ausilio reportedly held talks with Liverpool counterpart Richard Hughes earlier this week in Monte Carlo.
Jones, whose contract expires in 2027, is valued at around €25 million, although convincing Liverpool to sell one of Arne Slot’s trusted rotation players will not be straightforward.
For now, though, Inter’s priority is clear: secure Palestra first, then reshape the rest of the squad around him.
