Inter Milan have turned their attention to Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah after negotiations for Udinese centre-back Oumar Solet reached a standstill. The Serie A champions tabled a €20 million bid for the French defender, but Udinese rejected the offer and are holding out for at least €25 million, a figure Inter are currently unwilling to meet.
The impasse comes amid a frustrating transfer window for the Nerazzurri, who have placed strict limits on spending despite securing the domestic double last season. They recently lost defender Marco Palestra to Chelsea after the London club doubled their wage proposal and paid €10 million more to Atalanta. Atletico Madrid are now preparing to make an offer for Solet, threatening to repeat their January swoop for Ademola Lookman that disrupted Inter’s plans.
Chalobah Alternative
With their primary target drifting away, Inter have joined Serie A rivals Como in tracking Chalobah. The Chelsea academy graduate has featured regularly this term, making 47 competitive appearances and scoring three goals from defence. He turns 27 next month and has gained experience through several loan spells away from Stamford Bridge.
Como have already submitted a formal proposal worth €25 million plus €2 million in add-ons, but Chelsea are demanding €30 million plus a further €5 million in performance-related bonuses. Chalobah’s reported salary of €1.6 million per season is financially accessible to Italian clubs, yet the transfer fee remains a significant obstacle for both Inter and Como.
World Cup Platform
The defender’s immediate focus is international duty, where he faces a high-profile audition. Following an injury to England captain Reece James, Chalobah is expected to start in the World Cup group stage match against Panama.
This global platform could prove pivotal for any transfer. A commanding performance might strengthen Chelsea’s resolve to hold out for their full asking price, or convince Chalobah to remain and compete for his place at Stamford Bridge. Inter continue to monitor the situation, aware that the player’s value could shift significantly depending on his showing at the tournament.