Inter Milan are monitoring RC Strasbourg Alsace full-back Guéla Doué as they seek a successor to Denzel Dumfries, according to Sky Sport. The Serie A champions have turned their attention to the Ivorian defender after encountering financial obstacles in their pursuit of other targets.
The Nerazzurri are working with a transfer budget estimated at €20 million for the position. This constraint has complicated efforts to secure Anan Khalaili from Union Saint-Gilloise, despite reportedly reaching an agreement with the Belgian side. The 21-year-old Israeli international carries a €30 million price tag, creating a significant shortfall that has forced Inter to consider more affordable alternatives.
Doué’s Credentials
Doué, 23, has attracted interest following an impressive campaign in Ligue 1. The Angers-born defender found the net twice and created seven goals across 34 appearances in all competitions for Strasbourg last season. His performances earned him a prominent role with the Ivory Coast at the World Cup, where he started three of the Elephants’ four matches.
The right-back joined Strasbourg two years ago and remains under contract until 2029. This long-term arrangement gives the French club strong negotiating leverage, though Doué is considered a more financially viable target compared to the Khalaili deal. His adaptability on the flank and attacking output from deep positions align with the profile Inter require to fill the void left by Dumfries’s departure.
Negotiation Challenges Ahead
While Dumfries has completed his move to Real Madrid, Inter have not yet advanced beyond the scouting phase for Doué. No formal offer has been tabled, and Strasbourg are under no immediate pressure to sell given the player’s lengthy contract.
The Italian champions must now decide whether to allocate additional funds to secure Khalaili or pivot definitively toward Doué. With pre-season preparations underway, the club faces increasing pressure to resolve their right-back situation before the transfer window closes.