“Neymar To Inter Milan? That’s Bull****” – Nerazzurri Sporting Director Denies Talks & Reflects On Lookman Pursuit | OneFootball

Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio has categorically denied claims linking Neymar with a move to the Nerazzurri, describing the reports as completely unfounded.

“Neymar? Come on, that’s bull****. Never contacted, never offered – it’s nonsense,” he told Corriere dello Sport in an interview with Ivan Zazzaroni.

Ausilio also reflected on his long tenure at the club, working under four different presidents.

“Moratti was passionate. Thohir, visionary and brave. Steven Zhang, innovative. And Oaktree? Solid and structured,” he explained.

Ausilio Praises Inter Milan President Marotta

UDINE, ITALY – APRIL 08: Piero Ausilio, Sporting Director of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A TIM match between Udinese Calcio and FC Internazionale at Dacia Arena on April 08, 2024 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

The director praised club president Beppe Marotta as “perfect for those who just want to do their job,” highlighting their shared trust and autonomy.

He confirmed that Cristian Chivu was chosen after “a super-shared decision,” calling him “the right man for the club and ownership.”

On the summer transfer window, Ausilio revisited the Lookman pursuit and Inter’s decision to maintain their tactical structure.

“We tried for Lookman – Atalanta were immovable.

“But the growth of Pio Esposito and Bonny allowed us to stay faithful to the 3-5-2,” he said, revealing that Esposito’s breakthrough came after the Club World Cup: “We saw his physical strength and hunger.”

“So Bonny was chosen as a replacement for Thuram and Esposito as a replacement for Lautaro.”

However, the director also confirmed that the club had “followed Hojlund” before the Dane’s move to Napoli.

Asked about past managers, Ausilio named Spalletti and Conte as the best he’s seen on the pitch, while crediting Mancini and Ranieri for their leadership.

“Mourinho? Above everyone for what he represents in Inter’s history.”

Finally, he described Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini as “top.”

Ausilio ‘Happy’ At Inter Amid Saudi Arabia Interest

FLORENCE, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Piero Ausilio of FCInternazionale looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Stadio Artemio Franchi on October 22, 2022 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Despite rumours of a possible move to Saudi Arabia, Ausilio reaffirmed his commitment.

“I’m happy where I am. I have a contract until 2027. I’ve had more lucrative offers before – but I never left Inter.”

He also played down January market speculation.

“After just a month and a half, do you really think clubs are already planning January? Fantasies. Football lives in the present.”