:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58036111/879584604.jpg.0.jpg)
If you believe everything that’s written in the Italian media (and who wouldn’t?), Inter Milan have solved their defense situation.
Kind of anyway.
La Gazzetta dello Sport and several other media outlets have reported Lazio defender Stefan de Vrij and the Nerazzurri are close to reaching terms to bring the Dutchman to the San Siro in January.
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8975409/Serpents_of_Madonnina_logo.png){kind=logo}
Lazio are trying to extend the contract of one of their best players, but reports suggest de Vrij is not interested in extending his stay. Lazio is offering €2.5 million per season with a €28 million buyout clause for him, according to Calcio Mercato.
La Gazzetta also reports that Inter Milan are ready to tender an offer of €3.5 million per season, pending the approval of Suning Group – Inter’s majority owners. It has been suggested that Suning is not interested in any big signings in January with hopes of keeping away from Financial Fair Play issues.
So far this season, de Vrij has three goals in 15 Serie A appearances for Lazio. He has also played in two Europa League games – a 1-0 win over Nice and a 3-2 win over Vitesse Arnhem.
Juventus and Liverpool have also expressed interest in de Vrij’s services as the Reds look to bolster their back line while the Old Lady’s interest may waiver as Mattia Caldera has seen marked improvement.
De Vrij started his career in the youth system at Feyenoord. He moved up through the youth ranks before breaking into the main squad in 2009. Lazio acquired de Vrij in 2014 for €7 million.
It would appear that, if Lazio fail to secure de Vrij, Inter would be a likely destination for him. Pairing with the likes of Milan Skriniar or Joao Miranda would look pretty impressive.
It is likely that, if a deal is struck, it would likely be a pre-contract in January with the intent of a full signing coming next summer — similar to Naby Keita’s deal with Liverpool -- this way Inter avoids the transfer fee since de Vrij’s contract is up at the end of this season.