The Athletic have revealed that Inter Milan have to sell one of either Alessandro Bastoni or Lautaro Martinez this summer to balance their books.
Bastoni is reportedly Tottenham’s number one target for the left centre-back role but the club’s pursuit of the defender is not thought to be progressing, with the 23-year-old not keen on making a move to the Premier League (Corriere Dello Sport via TMW – 03/06/22).
Bastoni’s Inter teammate Martinez has also been linked with a move to the Spurs over recent weeks, with Antonio Conte alleged to be on reuniting with the forward at the North London club (Inter Live).
The Athletic have now revealed Inter’s financial position is perilous at the moment, with the club having to repay their loan of £235m by 2024. That is said to be partly why the Nerazzurri were not prepared to meet Ivan Perisic’s contract demands.
It is explained that the Serie A club have to make a profit of around £50m during this summer’s transfer window and the impression is that they would have to sell one of Bastoni or Martinez in order to do so.
Spurs Web Opinion
Perhaps this is why the Spurs hierarchy are being patient with the Bastoni deal and biding their time despite the centre-back’s reluctance to make the move. Tottenham could be of the belief that Inter have no choice but to force the 23-year-old out in order to balance their books.
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