Inter have identified Everton pariah Lucas Digne as their top target for the left flank. The fullback has butted heads with Rafa Benitez and has not played in a month. The Nerazzurri are studying the formula to convince the Toffees. They are plotting to propose a swap of loans with Matias Vecino, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports.
The Uruguayan midfielder clamored for more playing time in recent weeks. However, he does not want to move to a second-tier team. His agent offered him to Roma and Napoli, but the two Italian clubs rebuffed him, the newspaper adds. He would be open to transferring to the Premier League. Coach Rafa Benitez had eyed him on a couple of occasions while he was in Italy.
Inter do not have resources to spend in January and need to win over Everton with other methods. They aim to get Digne on loan with no obligation to buy and an option at most. He is under contract with the Blues until 2025, while Vecino has only six months left on his deal.
The gaffer slammed the French world champion Sunday: “The most important thing for me is to have players on the pitch who want to be there, fight for this club, these fans, and their teammates.” Inter are not the only ones chasing after the Everton outcast. Chelsea shortlisted him to replace the injured Ben Chilwell. Newcastle are also after the 28-year-old defender, ESPN reports. The Toffees might prioritize clubs that want to sign him permanently.