Inter Milan’s 2026 defensive revolution: Ordonez, Koulierakis and more on the nerazzurri radar

Chivu’s Backline Set for Major Overhaul as Key Contracts Expire

With three defenders approaching the end of their contracts, Inter Milan are preparing for a major rebuild in defence next season. 

According to Tuttosport via Fcinter1908, the Nerazzurri are planning decisive moves to refresh a department that could lose several experienced figures. 

Stefan de Vrij, Francesco Acerbi and Matteo Darmian are all set to see their current deals expire in 2026, forcing the club to consider a generational shift in the backline.

In light of the complexities surrounding the pursuit of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, Inter Milan are keeping multiple options open. 

The scouting department has broadened its reach across Europe, focusing on young, high-upside defenders capable of fitting into Cristian Chivu’s dynamic system.

If Bisseck leaves, Ordonez leads the shortlist

The situation could evolve even earlier if Yann Bisseck increases pressure to leave Milan in January. Tuttosport reports that Inter Milan are open to selling the German defender — but only for an offer of at least €30 million (£25.6 million).

Should that happen, the frontrunner to replace him would be Joel Ordonez, the 21-year-old Ecuadorian centre-back currently with Club Bruges. 

Inter Milan have already opened direct communication channels with the Belgian club following the summer transfer of Aleksandar Stankovic, which could facilitate a potential deal.

Other names on the Inter Milan scouting list

Inter Milan’s scouting team is casting a wide net. Among the other defenders being closely monitored are Konstantinos Koulierakis, who has been impressing at Wolfsburg, and several talents from Serie A.
The names include Oumar Solet of Udinese, Mario Gila of Lazio — also tracked by AC Milan — and Tarik Muharemovic of Sassuolo, one of the early revelations of this Serie A campaign.

With multiple veterans nearing the end of their Inter Milan careers and a potential January departure for Bisseck, the club’s defensive rebuild is already in motion. 

The 2026 Inter Milan backline could look very different — younger, quicker, and tailored to Chivu’s aggressive, high-pressing philosophy.