Leao, Suzuki, and the behind-the-scenes details surrounding Stones: the transfer market has always been full of surprises. Sudden moves, unexpected decisions… and the free transfer market is certainly the one that provides the most.
John Stones to join Inter: Inter are once again offering a free transfer.
There are no negotiations between clubs; players can decide on their own, and quickly: this was the case recently with John Stones, Inter’s surprise signing, a move that quickly became a reality after an official offer was made late Monday morning.
Inter moved quietly, after Stones’ agents had been promoting the defender as a free-for-all opportunity for months and the Nerazzurri had been evaluating him for a long time.
John Stones showed his physical integrity and excellent condition during the World Cup, and Inter wanted to move forward quickly.
The defender’s contract runs until June 2028, two years with no option for renewal and a net annual salary of €4 million. Stones had been in contact with Juventus, especially Chelsea and Arsenal, who were offering him a role as a backup without any guarantees of starting.
Stones chose Inter for their formation, their project, and the idea of playing more: the green light has been given and a new defender is available for Cristian Chivu.
And “Cuti” Romero?
However, Cristian Romero, a defender leaving Tottenham who earns a lot and is not a “comfortable” or easy operation, remains on Inter and Barcelona’s lists.
The Nerazzurri have been working on it for weeks, but they would need to lower their asking prices and also sell Benjamin Pavard, who is expected to leave this summer.
Milan, tense hours ahead of Leão’s departure.
On the AC Milan front, attention and antennas are sharp on the Rafael Leão front: Fenerbahçe arrived in Milan with the intention of making a move both as a player and as a club, but Gerry Cardinale immediately made it clear that loans, even with an option to buy, that are expensive and involve a paid salary, are not of interest.
AC Milan is only considering a permanent transfer, but the Turks have been warned because Galatasaray had also inquired, and the Rossoneri’s position on the terms of the deal applies to everyone.
Leão remains on the way out and could finance another attacking move, while Milan remains vigilant with Amorim, who wants an additional player behind the striker after Kostantinos Karetsas left for Borussia Dortmund. Evaluations are underway.
Zion Suzuki: Are you heading towards Turin or Paris?
There is a very hot operation on the international and Italian level: the future of Zion Suzuki must be kept under observation.
Juventus made an initial offer to Parma, which was rejected as too low; Paris Saint-Germain would like to invest in Suzuki and loan him out if they can’t find a solution for Chevalier, while Parma’s Japanese goalkeeper is pushing for a game, and Juve has this card up their sleeve.
The alternative for the Bianconeri? Guglielmo Vicario, still leaving Tottenham on favorable terms. If Suzuki isn’t involved, Vicario remains available. Another story to watch!
