Inter finally decided to seal the Francesco Acerbi deal on deadline day after trying until the last moment to onboard a different defender. However, Manuel Akanji moved to Manchester City for a healthy fee. Tottenham and Chelsea didn’t loan out Trevoh Chalobah and Japhet Tanganga, who had been linked previously.
The management and the coaching staff reportedly had to convince president Steven Zhang. He would have preferred not to add another salary to the payroll. But they reduced it late, as Lucien Agoumé joined Troyes on loan, while Eddie Salcedo moved to Bari with the same formula.
Agent Andrea Pastorello commented on Acerbi joining Inter to La Gazzetta della Sport.
“Everything worked out. It took the time it needed, as it was a complex deal. He’s very happy to start this new chapter of his career. He’s not worried at all about how the fans will welcome him. He strongly wanted to join, and I think he fully proved it. Simone Inzaghi surely wanted to sign him.”
Lazio and the Nerazzurri agreed to a season-long loan with a €3.5M option to buy. The latter will pay his salary, although the center-back reportedly gave up July and August’s wages to facilitate the move.
Our Take on Acerbi Joining Inter
With Milan Skriniar staying, La Beneamata realistically needed just another reliable option to replace Andera Ranocchia. The newcomer plugs such hole, and he has a lot of experience in a three-man defense, where he’s in his element. There were obviously way more appealing targets, but it’s tough to onboard quality youngsters while operating on a shoestring. Manchester City signing Akanji is a blow because he could have waited for the Nerazzurri if lesser teams pursued him.
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