Inter Milan targeting Højlund, Nico Paz and Leoni to reinforce Chivu's squad

With Cristian Chivu officially appointed as head coach, Inter Milan are ready to reshape their squad

Inter Milan are preparing to strengthen the squad under new head coach Cristian Chivu. 

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport via Fcinter1908, there are four key targets the club’s management is focused on.

“The market now truly begins. The other market, because phase one already brought in midfielder Petar Sucic and winger Luis Henrique, both officially signed. 

Now, with the coaching situation resolved, sporting director Piero Ausilio and president Beppe Marotta are set on providing Cristian Chivu with a stronger and deeper squad than the one that collapsed like melting snow over the final 42 days of the past season.

Last night’s meeting between management and Chivu also served to discuss the squad’s state: the Romanian coach knows it inside out and is aware of the team’s needs based on his tactical vision. 

There is room for three significant signings—young players capable of immediately impacting the league and Inter Milan’s campaign. 

One per department: Højlund in attack, Nico Paz in midfield, and Leoni in defense.

These won’t be the only signings—there will be more tweaks—but these three are the main priorities, the ones highlighted in red by the club.

The desired forward is Rasmus Højlund, that much is now clear. Ausilio has been working on the deal for weeks, having prioritized him over other options—most notably Jonathan David. 

The Danish striker from Manchester United is the preferred choice due to age, salary, and his prior Serie A experience. Højlund has already expressed his approval of the move: while an economic agreement with Inter Milan isn’t finalized, he has made it known that he would welcome the transfer. That has laid the foundation for ongoing talks between Ausilio and Manchester United.

The goal is to strike a deal on a loan with an option to buy, and Inter Milan believe they have a strong chance of success. Juventus, once interested, has now dropped out of the race, giving Inter Milan a clear path forward. It’s worth noting that Inter Milan aim to sign two forwards in this window. And let’s not forget Ange-Yoan Bonny, who worked with Chivu at Parma.

Nico Paz and Leoni also on Inter Milan’s radar as squad rejuvenation begins

In midfield, much will depend on Davide Frattesi’s situation. All signs point to continuity, even after Inzaghi’s departure. 

Should things change, Inter Milan would seek another box-to-box midfielder. The dream target remains Nico Paz, who will not participate in the Club World Cup with Real Madrid. 

The Spanish club intends to assess his future later on, which leaves a glimmer of hope for Ausilio—despite past setbacks, such as the failed Fabregas deal.

In defense, Inter Milan’s primary target is Leoni—someone Chivu knows well from their time together at Parma. 

The club’s interest in Leoni is not new: Ausilio had already wanted to sign him during his Sampdoria days but lacked the financial flexibility to make it happen. Now, circumstances are different. Inter Milan are keen to rejuvenate their backline, especially with Francesco Acerbi’s future still unclear.

Acerbi’s contract runs until 2026, but due to an initial clause, his salary will drop significantly in the next 12 months. It’s logical that this issue will be addressed soon. And who knows—maybe Inzaghi’s departure will influence that decision.