Al-Hilal Use Cancelo Talks To State Interest In Veteran Inter Milan Defenders | OneFootball

Inter Milan’s talks with Al-Hilal over João Cancelo have opened the door to wider transfer discussions involving Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij, as contacts between the two clubs intensify.

According to Sportitalia, negotiations between Inter and Al-Hilal initially focused on João Cancelo. The Nerazzurri would welcome the Portuguese full-back back to Serie A, but only if the Saudi club agree to cover most, if not all, of his salary.

During those talks, however, Al-Hilal also expressed concrete interest in two experienced Inter defenders: Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij.

Both players are highly regarded by Simone Inzaghi, who knows them well from their time together in Milan.

The possibility of one of the two leaving has not been ruled out.

Inter Consider Acerbi & De Vrij Departures As Al-Hilal Talk Cancelo

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Should either Acerbi or De Vrij depart, Inter would be forced to react quickly on the market.

As journalist Gianluigi Longari explains, the club would look for a very specific profile.

Inter would seek a defender who “combines a left foot, versatility and the ability to play multiple roles in a back three, while guaranteeing continuity and tactical flexibility.”

That identikit reflects Cristian Chivu’s needs and the broader strategy at Viale della Liberazione.

For now, no decisions have been taken. But the Cancelo negotiations have clearly evolved into a broader dialogue.

Indeed one that could reshape Inter’s defence as well as their right flank in the coming months.