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La Gazzetta dello Sport highlights the missed opportunity: Oumar Solet, man of the match at San Siro, had once been targeted by Inter Milan

An intriguing transfer-market backstory has emerged from La Gazzetta dello Sport via Fcinter1908, and it leaves Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu with a bitter taste.

The spotlight fell on French defender Oumar Solet, who was the undisputed star in Udinese’s surprising win at San Siro. “If there was a way to make Inter Milan’s directors regret their choices, here it is: the Frenchman scored at least three goals, saving like a master,” read his player ratings. 

Solet earned a 7.5 rating, the highest on the pitch, and left a strong impression against the Nerazzurri.

Inter Milan targeted Solet but settled for Akanji in defense

Inter Milan had seriously considered bringing Solet to strengthen their defensive line. Negotiations were opened, but the gap with Udinese over the transfer formula proved insurmountable. Talks stalled, and in the end the deal collapsed.

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La Gazzetta dello Sport highlights the missed opportunity: Oumar Solet, man of the match at San Siro, had once been targeted by Inter Milan.

Instead, the club turned its attention elsewhere, closing a last-minute agreement for Swiss international Manuel Akanji, who joined from Manchester City. 

While Akanji adds experience and versatility, the timing of Solet’s display against Inter Milan makes the decision look like a painful missed chance.

For Cristian Chivu, the episode underlines the delicate challenge of renewing Inter Milan’s defense while trying to remain competitive at the top level. 

Fans and media alike are now asking the same question: did Inter Milan let a future star slip through their fingers?

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