Inter have officially confirmed Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s contract extension, ensuring the 37-year-old midfielder remains at San Siro until the conclusion of the 2026-27 season. The club announced the agreement on Tuesday, the same day the player’s previous deal reached its scheduled expiry on 30 June.
The renewal came as part of a broader squad update, with the Nerazzurri also revealing that four senior players will depart after their contracts expired.
Substantial wage reduction agreed
The Armenia international has accepted significantly reduced terms to prolong his stay in Milan. His new base salary stands at approximately €2m per season, marking a decrease of nearly 50 per cent from the €3.8m he earned previously. The former Manchester United and Arsenal playmaker has thus chosen to continue his career in Serie A on diminished wages rather than seek alternative employment.
This financial adjustment reflects both the club’s salary management strategy and the player’s desire to remain with the Italian champions. At 37, Mkhitaryan becomes one of the elder statesmen of the squad, offering continuity during a period of significant transition.
Consistent on-pitch contributions
The veteran demonstrated his enduring utility throughout the 2025-26 campaign. He featured in 39 matches across all competitions, contributing four goals and three assists from midfield. These figures underline his reliability as a squad rotation option capable of operating effectively across multiple fronts.
Defensive overhaul proceeds
In stark contrast to Mkhitaryan’s retention, Inter confirmed that goalkeeper Yann Sommer, central defenders Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi, and versatile full-back Matteo Darmian will all exit the club. Their contracts expired on 30 June without renewal, depriving the squad of considerable defensive experience accumulated over multiple seasons.
Mkhitaryan will operate within a midfield department featuring Italy international Nicolò Barella, Poland’s Piotr Zielinski, plus emerging talents Petar Sucic and Andy Diouf. Davide Frattesi and Aleksandar Stankovic remain on the books, though reports indicate both could seek moves during the summer transfer window.
The Armenian’s commitment, secured on reduced financial terms, ensures Inter retain valuable technical quality and dressing-room leadership. His presence offers manager Simone Inzaghi a reliable, experienced option as the club navigates its defensive rebuild and prepares for the challenges of the forthcoming campaign.