Inter interested in Napoli goalkeeper Meret on a free deal

With his contract expiring at the end of the season, Alex Meret could be on his way out of Napoli. The goalkeeper could bid farewell after spending seven years at the club as negotiations over a new deal seem to have hit a standstill. According to Florian Plettenberg and 'La Gazzetta dello Sport', Meret's uncertain future at the Diego Armando Maradona could pave the way for Inter Milan to secure the goalkeeper on a free deal.

The Italian shot-stopper is reportedly insisting on a three-year renewal, while the 'Partenopei' are not willing to go beyond two. This contractual wobble has presented Inter president Beppe Marotta, known for his standout negotiating skills, with the opportunity to approach the soon-to-become-free-agent in the coming months.

The 'Nerazzurri' have been in search of a goalkeeper to replace Yann Sommer, who at 35 no longer represents a long-term option. The Switzerland international's contract with the club expires at the end of the season - like Meret - allowing the defending Serie A champions to make a switch ahead of the upcoming campaign. Inter have seemingly deviated from their initial plan to promote Josep Martinez - brought in from Genoa last summer - as a first-choice goalkeeper and now see Meret as a better choice to fill Sommer’s shoes in 2025-26.

Meret would be an important signing for Inzaghi's side. The 27-year-old has been delivering solid performances for Antonio Conte's team this season, helping them stay at the summit of the Italian top flight. While Napoli continue in their attempt behind the scenes to find a breakthrough in Meret's contract situation, the player is set to sit out the upcoming match against Lazio, valid for the round of 16 of the Coppa Italia. Conte is set to do a lot of rotation ahead of the league clash with Meret's former side Udinese.

 

December 5, 2024