Inter considering midfield moves

Despite hearing over and over that Inter will need to sell before buying anybody in January, Inter is already deciding which midfielders Stefano Pioli could get in January. Or at least, the media is claiming that Inter is deciding which midfielders Stefano Pioli could get in January. Either way outside of revamping the defense, defensive midfield is probably the place that needs the most work so it’s worth taking a look at these rumored options.

Apparently the dream choice would be Luiz Gustavo. The 29 year old has been linked to Inter in the past, and he would be the perfect Medel replacement if/when the Chilean returns and slots into a back three. Wolfsburg would likely demand a nice sum of money for the Brazilian though (remember the Perisic negotiations?) and the only way this move would probably happen is if the German side accepted a loan plus obligation to buy. Which knowing them is fairly unlikely...

Another new name that could be an interesting option is Joao Moutinho. The Monaco man has seen his playing time reduced this season, and a new challenge in a new league could appeal to him (especially if his countryman Joao Mario puts in a good word). It’s unclear how willing Monaco would be to sell him plus the fact that his side is right in Ligue 1’s title race might make him want to stick around.

If the club wanted to save money (and hopefully use it on the defense?) one choice could be Lassana Diarra. The 31 year old is likely to leave Marseille, and he doesn’t seem opposed to the idea of joining Inter. The other cheap option is John Obi Mikel. Chelsea will most likely allow him to leave in January, though apparently he is already in negotiations with Marseille (a deal that could free up Diarra to come to Inter). If Inter is seriously interested in Mikel then Ausilio would need to move quickly.