Targeted by Fans, Wanted by Inter Milan: The Curious Case of Luis Henrique

If OM are engaged in several parallel negotiations, it's with Serie A that talks seem most concrete: Inter Milan is the likely destination.

OM’s week in Rome is focused on preparing for Sunday’s match against Brest, but for Luis Henrique, it also serves as a taste of what might come: the 23-year-old Brazilian already knows he will leave the club at the end of the season, and Italy appears to be his most probable destination. 

That’s how the French daily L’Équipe begins its article on Luis Henrique’s future via Fcinter1908.it.

“He has no shortage of suitors, and though his recent months have been underwhelming yet intriguing, that hasn't discouraged anyone. 

The more he underwhelms as a right winger, the more interest he attracts.
Even Bayern Munich has reportedly shown interest, with Newcastle and Nottingham Forest also keeping tabs. 

But while OM is maintaining various conversations, it’s Serie A that offers the most concrete developments. In particular, Inter Milan seem to be leading the race. Nothing has been signed yet, but talks between the Nerazzurri and the Marseille management are progressing smoothly. "

According to Foot Mercato, a verbal agreement was reached on Monday between the reigning Italian champions and Luis Henrique — who had just extended his contract with OM last August until 2028.

Both Inter Milan and OM are motivated to close the deal soon after the season ends: Inter Milan want to include him in their Club World Cup squad (June 15 – July 13), while the French side needs to balance their books by June 30. 

The asking price is over €30 million (£25.7 million) — a figure justified by the player’s versatility, having adapted from the left wing to a deeper role on the right. 

The numbers support a high valuation too: with 7 goals and 6 assists in Ligue 1, this is Luis Henrique’s best season yet, even if his performances in the second half of the campaign have been less impressive. 

He hasn’t scored since February 2, in the 3–2 win over Lyon, and it seems his mind is already elsewhere.

Lackluster and surprisingly sloppy against Monaco (0–3 on April 12), he was targeted by the Virage Nord ultras at the Vélodrome last Saturday, who grouped him with another unfulfilled talent. “Greenwood, Henrique, wake the hell up!!!” read one banner. But the Brazilian clearly didn’t take the message as fans hoped.

He didn’t show much reaction on the pitch, but he got the message nonetheless: it’s time to pack his bags. 

First, though, there’s still a second-place finish in Ligue 1 to defend — or at least a spot on the podium for direct Champions League qualification.
If he leaves behind a solid transfer fee and a goal achieved, the bad memories will soon fade. What remains will be the smile and the few sparks of talent that lit up Marseille.