Club World Cup to be crucial test for Inter Milan after UCL defeat

Chivu will assess his squad in the US, with eight players under review after the Champions League final loss and coaching change

The upcoming Club World Cup will be a key opportunity for Inter Milan to take stock of the squad following their dramatic defeat in the Champions League final and the recent coaching change.

New manager Cristian Chivu will personally evaluate which players fit into his long-term project. As reported by Corriere dello Sport via Fcinter1908.it, eight players currently have uncertain futures.

"Not all of them will necessarily leave," the paper explains, "but there are at least eight players who could be part of transfer discussions — whether for financial gain, to free up space in certain roles, or to be used as bargaining chips in player-swap deals."

The players in question are Acerbi and Bisseck in defense, Calhanoglu, Frattesi, and Asllani in midfield, and Valentin Carboni, Taremi, and Pio Esposito in attack.

Each case will be assessed individually, but Chivu is expected to have a major say once he’s observed them closely during the Club World Cup. 

Many decisions will therefore be postponed until the coming weeks when a clearer picture will emerge.

Chivu’s decisions will shape Inter Milan's summer market moves

In defense, Bisseck is seen as a potential source of significant profit, especially with interest coming from Premier League clubs. 

Meanwhile, Acerbi could be let go to make room for younger options such as Leoni and Mosquera. 

At 37, Acerbi could have his contract—set to expire in 2026—terminated early for a €500,000 (£423.000) fee, allowing Inter Milan to retain De Vrij as a more youthful veteran (he is four years younger).

In midfield, Frattesi was expected to leave had Inzaghi stayed, but now Chivu will evaluate him personally. Frattesi wants more playing time and a leading role.

Another key question concerns the midfield pivot: Calhanoglu has received interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey. 

If he stays, Inter Milan will need to decide whether Asllani, who hasn't fully matured, can continue as his backup. The club appears open to letting him go.

In attack, it's unlikely that both Valentin Carboni and Pio Esposito will remain. One could be involved in a trade deal or sent on loan again.

Finally, Taremi’s future also remains uncertain. After a disappointing season, Inter Milan could decide to cash in on the Iranian forward, who was signed as a free agent just a year ago.