Inter, Thohir fires warning shot: The 10 players under threat
“I have said to my management team that we must be sure that whoever remains with us knows the value of wearing the Inter shirt. If people don’t buy into this philosophy then it’s better that they leave”. These were the words of President Erick Thohir after the nerazzurri’s final home game of the season against Empoli. A summer of transfer activity is about to get underway with some members of the current squad facing uncertain futures. Below are the 10 players who are most under threat.
JUAN JESUS – His versatility as either a full-back or central defender could mean he stays as a squad player for next season. Not always convincing when called upon, he could be sacrificed if the right offer comes in.
ALEX TELLES – The club will not activate their right to take him on a permanent deal despite some good performances. His replacement will be Caner Erkin from Fenerbahce.
SANTON – A regular in the first-half of the campaign but a disappointing derby performance has seen him sit-out most of the second-half of the season. He will leave and possibly head back to the Premier League.
D’AMBROSIO – An uncertain future. Mancini’s liking for the player, and the fact that he has been a regular in recent months may keep him at the club. Once again however, he could be sold if the price is right.
FELIPE MELO – Mancini hedged his bets for the Brazilian and lost. He started the season well but the wheels came off completely against Lazio. His entourage are clear in their opinion that his future is with the nerazzurri but the club itself may have other ideas.
MEDEL – A virtual ever-present this season, his versatile nature means he should remain in place but possibly in a different role, as Inter seek more creativity in the midfield.
LJAJIC – He will head back to Roma with Inter once again not taking up their option to buy. Frustratingly inconsistent, Thohir is not prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt.
BIABIANY – Looks to be utilised more in the Europa League next season and for this reason, he should remain at the club
JOVETIC – Inter has an obligation to purchase the Montenegrin from Manchester City but are trying to find a preferred position for him within the team. If Jo-Jo becomes a permanent signing, this may not mean that he starts next season at the club if the correct offer comes in. His position may not have been helped with his post-match comments on Saturday when he stated that he had; “Not come here to sit on the bench”.
EDER – Like Jovetic, Inter has an obligation to take the player from Sampdoria, but disappointing performances since his January move has cast doubt on his future. He may however, be given another chance next season due to the difficulties of finding a replacement.
Steve Mitchell @barafundler
