Guarin and Belfodil linked with moves to England.
In the fifth instalment of our six-part Serie A series, we take a closer look at how Inter Milan will approach the January transfer window, seemingly boosted by the finances of new owner Erick Thohir.
Despite promises of investment from Thohir after his takeover earlier this season, speculation initially suggests that Inter Milan will look to sell their expendable players before buying this month.
Currently, there are two players in particular who are being heavily linked with departures, with Ishak Belfodil on the verge of completing a move to West Ham, while Chelsea continue their pursuit of midfielder Fredy Guarin, according to Football Italia.
However, Belfodil’s situation could yet change after reports emerged that Parma, who co-own the striker, have blocked the move from happening while Sam Allardyce’s future at the Premier League club could be in danger.
Meanwhile, negotiations are said to be continuing between Guarin and Chelsea, and his exit would undoubtedly be felt most given his influence on the team.
The Colombian has perhaps not yet reached his peak, but has demonstrated what he is capable of and furthermore what he can offer to the right team with his effort, pace and distribution.
Coach Walter Mazzarri has surprisingly received a fair amount of criticism despite this being his first season in charge of the Nerazzurri, not forgetting that he has also been tasked with rebuilding the squad after a disastrous season last year.
Inter remain in sixth place in Serie A, eight points adrift of third placed Napoli as they target a spot in the Champions League next year, although that is becoming increasingly unlikely as they continue to drop points.
There has been further disappointment in the transfer market with Ezequiel Lavezzi committing his future to PSG, while Juventus appear to have stepped up their interest in bringing Erik Lamela back to Italy either in January or the summer.
Juan Mata has also been linked with a switch in the next few weeks, although having worked with compatriot Rafa Benitez last season at Chelsea, the Spaniard may favour a move to Naples provided he is certain on leaving Stamford Bridge.
Argentine forward Ruben Botta has joined on a permanent deal after signing for the club in the summer, but was immediately sent out on a loan deal to Livorno before being recalled this week.
However, with the options on their transfer shortlist dwindling, it remains to be seen what business Inter do between now and the end of the month.
As reported by Football Italia on Thursday. a move for Southampton striker Pablo Osvaldo could be the next port of call, but assessing the squad as it is there isn’t a serious requirement to bolster the front-line.
Should Guarin leave, the Nerazzurri must strengthen their midfield whilst also looking at wingers to give Mazzarri some flexibility and options.
Although perhaps more importantly for the former Napoli coach at this stage, is to obtain quality rather than quantity, and that isn’t always an easy task during January.
Juventus Transfer News Analysis
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