Internazionale have stepped back from their pursuit of Udinese centre-back Oumar Solet after concerns over the defender’s physical condition and an inability to agree a fee, opening the door for rivals Como and Atlético Madrid.
The Serie A champions are working to overhaul their defence following the departure of four senior players at the end of June. Francesco Acerbi, Stefan de Vrij and Matteo Darmian all left as their contracts expired, while veteran goalkeeper Yann Sommer also departed on a free transfer. Sporting director Piero Ausilio has confirmed the club must recruit at least two new defenders before the window closes.
Speaking in Rimini this week, Ausilio acknowledged Solet was one option among several. “Solet, like many other players, can be an opportunity, but he is not the only one,” he said. “Besides, I am by no means certain he can be the right one for us, let’s just calmly see what the transfer market brings, but we are in no rush and can begin pre-season with the squad we have. We do intend to sign two new defenders, though.”
Inter had reportedly tabled an offer of around €20 million for the 26-year-old Frenchman, who enters the final year of his contract at the Dacia Arena. However, Udinese are holding out for €30 million—a figure Inter deem excessive for a player who could negotiate a free transfer in 12 months’ time, according to Calciomercato.com.
Complicating matters further, Il Messaggero reports that Inter medical staff harbour reservations about Solet’s knee cartilage, fearing a chronic issue that could restrict his availability. These fitness doubts have prompted the club to explore alternatives.
Both Inter and Como have registered interest in Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah, though the England international carries a €40 million valuation. Atlético Madrid also remain in the race for Solet, giving Udinese leverage to maintain their asking price despite the ticking contract clock.