Inter Milan have identified Franco-Ivorian defender Oumar Solet as their leading candidate to reinforce the backline, with uncertainty surrounding the future of Benjamin Pavard.
The Serie A champions are preparing for the possibility that Pavard could depart before the close of the transfer window, prompting them to accelerate plans for a replacement.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Nerazzurri view Solet, who impressed during his debut season with Udinese, as the top option to fill the role.
Solet’s performances in Friuli have not gone unnoticed, with Inter’s management monitoring him closely for several months. The 25-year-old, who previously played for Red Bull Salzburg before moving to Serie A, has developed a reputation as a strong and composed central defender. His displays have now placed him at the forefront of Inter’s shortlist.
However, negotiations are complicated by legal issues surrounding the player. Solet has been under investigation since May over an alleged sexual assault case, a development that has left Inter hesitant to make an immediate financial commitment. The club is wary of investing heavily while the matter remains unresolved.
As a result, Inter are believed to be considering a structured deal rather than a direct transfer. Reports suggest the Italian side could pursue a season-long loan with an option to buy, potentially set between €20 million and €25 million. Such an arrangement would allow the club to defer a definitive decision until clarity emerges around Solet’s situation.
The defender, contracted to Udinese until June 2027, currently earns an annual salary of €1.3 million. His market valuation, according to Transfermarkt, stands at around €18 million, making him a financially attainable target for Inter should they wish to proceed.
Solet joined Udinese last summer from Salzburg, where he had established himself as a promising talent within the Austrian Bundesliga.
His transition to Italian football has been viewed as successful, and his physicality, combined with his ability to read the game, has made him one of the standout defenders in Udinese’s squad.
For Inter, the decision to pursue Solet is also tied to the club’s wider strategy of maintaining depth in central defence. With Pavard’s future uncertain and the club preparing for a demanding campaign both domestically and in Europe, strengthening the squad remains a priority for manager Simone Inzaghi and the technical staff.
Inter’s opening Serie A fixture comes against Torino, a match in which they will aim to set the tone for the season. Betting markets have already offered odds for the clash, with Inter regarded as strong favourites at 1.47 to win, while a draw is priced at 4.89 and Torino at 7.50.
The outcome of Solet’s potential transfer could significantly influence the balance of Inter’s defensive setup in the coming months. While his legal situation casts a shadow of uncertainty, the Nerazzurri remain attentive, knowing that securing a long-term replacement for Pavard will be crucial as they seek to defend their title and push for success in Europe.
