Gnoukouri heads to Udinese

Today, another young Inter player has left the club. This time Assane Gnoukouri has departed for Udinese. Like Miangue, it is also a loan with an option to purchase, but the details are a little more fleshed out and less favorable to Inter.

It is reported that Udinese can purchase the 20 year old for €4m at the end of the season, but there is no buy-back clause in this deal. That means if Gnoukouri impresses the Zebrette enough for them to exercise the option, Inter will have no means to get him back besides trying to purchase him later.

After playing in the youth academy, Gnoukouri forced his way into the first team under Roberto Mancini during the 14/15 season, impressing with his composure on the ball and ability to keep the midfield calm and solid. The youngster didn’t get much playing time in the 15/16 season and saw himself fall further down the pecking order this season with the new high-powered arrivals in midfield.

I’m a little dissapointed that this loan includes the option to purchase, but at the same time I understand. A club like Udinese probably wouldn’t accept a straight loan, and with Kondogbia, Brozovic, Gagliardini, and Mario all under the age of 25 there isn’t much room for Gnoukouri now and possibly in the future. Hopefully he does well and I wish him the best of luck at his loan.