Amidst the current financial crisis, Serie A clubs can hardly catch a break, and this includes the defending champions. Last summer, Inter did their best to steady the ship despite the economical downsizing and the departures of some high-caliber names, but with nine players running on expiring contracts, CEO Giuseppe Marotta has numerous knots to solve between now and the end of the season.
So which players should the Nerazzurri maintain beyond the current campaign, and which ones should be allowed to walk through the door of Appiano Gentile.
Samir Handanovic (Goalkeeper)
The captain’s dropping form has been a major concern for the club’s fans in the last year or so, but until a reliable replacement arrives, the veteran should be kept.
Perhaps the Slovenian should be offered a contract extension for another season while the club invests in a younger goalkeeper, and thus, the torch can be slowly passed throughout the next campaign.
Our Verdict: Keep
Alex Cordaz (Goalkeeper)
The third goalkeeper spot is the least of Marotta’s concerns. If Cordaz is happy to stay and collect a decent paycheck in the final years of his playing career then it wouldn’t really hurt anyone.
Our Verdict: Keep
Andrea Ranocchia (Center Back)
The former Inter captain is often running on expiring contracts, but ends up renewing his stay while serving as a likeable benchwarmer.
But it’s been almost a decade since the former Italian international was playing regularly, and perhaps it’s time for him to embark on a more memorable adventure before it’s too late.
Our Verdict: Release
Danilo D’Ambrosio (Right-Back)
The 33-year-old hasn’t played much since the arrival of Inzaghi, but he remains a reliable backup whose versatility can come handy (he can play in the back-three as well as both wingback roles).
The Beneamata have a solid back-three (Skriniar, de Vrij and Bastoni), but the former Torino man might just be the only adequate replacement for them.
Our Verdict: Keep
Aleksandar Kolarov (Left-Back)
Despite his advanced age, the Serbian performed admirably for Roma. But since making the move to Milano, he simply disappeared off the map.
If the 35-year-old wishes to extend his playing career, then he should surely start looking elsewhere.
Our Verdict: Release
Marcelo Brozovic (Defensive Midfielder)
The 28-year-old hasn’t performed to his best capabilities under the guidance of Inzaghi thus far, but losing him as a free agent while at the peak of his career would be a significant blow for the Nerazzurri.
If Inter are planning on parting ways with him, it would be much more beneficial to extend his expiring contract before selling him for a decent return.
Our Verdict: Keep
Arturo Vidal (Central Midfielder)
The former Juventus and Barcelona man is showing signs of improvement since the start of the campaign, but at the age of 34, his best years are well behind him and the club simply can’t afford his hefty wages any further.
Our Verdict: Release
Matias Vecino (Central Midfielder)
The Uruguayan hasn’t played all that much lately due to recurring injuries – as well as the emergence of Nicolò Barella – but he might actually be one of the most underrated players in the team, and he remains a valuable asset in terms of squad depth.
Our Verdict: Keep
Ivan Perisic (Winger)
The Croatian deserves all the credit in the world for adjusting to the 3-5-2 formation adopted by both Antonio Conte and Inzaghi.
However, the club should find themselves a more natural player for the wingback role, allowing the 32-year-old to enjoy the few good years remaining in his legs while playing in his original role at another club.
Our Verdict: Release