Inter Milan are reportedly eyeing a Bosman deal for Manchester City veteran Ilkay Gundogan.
Inter Milan are considering a bold move for Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan, whose contract with the reigning Premier League champions is set to expire in June 2025. The 34-year-old German international could be available on a free transfer, presenting an enticing opportunity for the Nerazzurri to bolster their midfield with a player of Gundogan’s pedigree and experience.
Simone Inzaghi is believed to be a driving force behind this potential transfer, seeing Gundogan as a player capable of elevating Inter’s technical quality. Gundogan, who returned to Manchester City after a brief and unfulfilled stint with Barcelona, remains a key figure under Pep Guardiola. However, according to Inter Live, his availability on a Bosman deal has sparked interest across Europe, with Inter emerging as a serious contender.
Challenges for Inter: Wages and Age
While Gundogan’s potential arrival would represent a significant coup for Inter, the financial implications could prove challenging. The German midfielder is among the highest earners at Manchester City, taking home €7.7 million net per season. For Inter, adhering to Oaktree’s directive to avoid signing players over 30 with high salaries presents an additional hurdle.
Inter’s management, led by Giuseppe Marotta, may explore creative solutions, such as spreading Gundogan’s salary across multiple seasons, to minimize the financial burden. Despite his age, Gundogan’s vast experience and leadership could provide invaluable stability to a midfield that may face further shake-ups, particularly with Bayern Munich keen on Hakan Calhanoglu.
The Bigger Picture: Inter’s Midfield Overhaul
Inter’s midfield is poised for potential changes, with key players like Calhanoglu and Kristjan Asllani facing uncertain futures. Bayern Munich’s interest in Calhanoglu could lead to a lucrative departure, while Asllani, who has struggled to meet expectations, maybe offloaded as early as January.
Gundogan’s arrival would bring a blend of creativity, composure, and tactical intelligence to Inter’s midfield, complementing stalwarts like Nicolo Barella. However, his signing would signal a deviation from Inter’s recent strategy of investing in younger players with resale value. The move would hinge on whether Inter prioritizes immediate success over long-term planning.
Bringing Ilkay Gundogan to the Giuseppe Meazza would be a masterstroke for Inter Milan, addressing their need for an experienced leader in midfield. While his age and salary present significant challenges, his technical ability and winning mentality could help the Nerazzurri compete more effectively on domestic and European fronts. Inter’s management must carefully weigh the costs against the potential rewards, as Gundogan’s presence could transform their midfield into one of the most formidable units in Serie A.
