News Focus
- Inter Milan President Beppe Marotta states discussions to sign Atalanta wing-back Marco Palestra are still at an early phase.
- The Nerazzurri have triggered the buy-back clause to re-sign Aleksandar Stankovic from Club Brugge for €23 million.
- Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries could join Real Madrid, creating space in the squad for a new wing-back.
- Goalkeeper Josep Martinez will remain at the club, while head coach Cristian Chivu is set to sign a contract extension.
Inter Milan chief Beppe Marotta has played down reports linking the Serie A champions with a big-money move for Atalanta wing-back Marco Palestra. Speaking at the 2026-27 Serie A fixture draw in Parma, Marotta insisted negotiations are only at the preliminary stage despite widespread speculation.
Palestra has impressed during loan spells, particularly at Cagliari, which has driven his market value to around €50 million. Marotta acknowledged the player’s quality but stressed that no deal is close. “He is an Atalanta player and a real talent. It helps Italian football that he is performing so well,” Marotta told reporters. “However, it is too early to say he will join Inter. We are only at the beginning of this process.”
The possible arrival of Palestra links to the potential exit of Denzel Dumfries. The Dutch international is reportedly nearing a transfer to Real Madrid. Both players operate in the wing-back position. Marotta noted that many top European clubs are tracking Palestra, with Inter among those interested.
In confirmed transfer news, Inter have officially re-signed midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic from Club Brugge. The club exercised their buy-back clause, paying €23 million to bring the Serbian back to San Siro just months after selling him for €9.5 million. Stankovic enjoyed an excellent season in Belgium, but his immediate future remains unclear. “We had to use the buy-back option after his fantastic campaign,” Marotta explained. “He is a valuable asset, but we will decide later if he stays or goes out on loan again.”
Marotta also addressed squad matters. He confirmed goalkeeper Josep Martinez will stay at the club, though the coach must choose between him and the current first-choice keeper. Additionally, the club will extend Cristian Chivu’s contract. The Romanian led Inter to a domestic Double in his first season, winning both the Scudetto and Coppa Italia. “Chivu is already under contract until 2027, but we have agreed new terms. We will announce this formally soon,” Marotta stated.