Inter Milan are reportedly preparing a cost-efficient summer double raid on Roma, targeting Lorenzo Pellegrini and Zeki Celik — both out of contract in June — to add midfield creativity and a right-back option as they plan for potential departures.
Inter Milan weigh swoop for Lorenzo Pellegrini and Zeki Celik
Inter appear to be exploring a low-cost reinforcement strategy by targeting two Roma players whose contracts expire this summer. Securing Lorenzo Pellegrini and Zeki Celik on free transfers would bolster midfield creativity and the right flank without transfer fees, addressing squad needs while protecting financial flexibility.
Why Lorenzo Pellegrini would be a major coup
Pellegrini brings proven Serie A pedigree: leadership, set-piece threat and the ability to link midfield and attack. At 29 he combines peak productivity with experience in high-pressure matches. For Inter, Pellegrini offers a different profile to their current creators — more goal threat from midfield and a refined ability to control tempo. A free transfer would be shrewd business, giving Inter tactical variety and a reliable figure in the dressing room.
Zeki Celik as a Denzel Dumfries alternative
Celik is a natural candidate to replace or rotate with Denzel Dumfries. The Turkish international provides width, delivery from deep and familiarity with playing as an attacking full-back. He isn’t a straight upgrade in raw power or forward drive but offers tactical adaptability and domestic experience in Serie A. For a club managing squad balance, Celik is a pragmatic, cost-effective option.
Competition, timing and the transfer window
Free-agent targets always attract interest, so Inter would likely face competition for both players. Roma can still negotiate renewals, and wages or project promise will shape decisions. The crucial window closes in summer; Inter must move decisively if they want to convert interest into signings while avoiding last-minute scramble.
What this means for Roma and the Serie A landscape
Losing Pellegrini and Celik would be a material setback for Roma: two starters gone for zero would force reinvestment or tactical reshaping. For Inter, those additions would strengthen depth and experience without heavy market outlay, reinforcing their ambitions domestically and in Europe. The net effect could be a tilt in squad balance among Italy’s title contenders.
Next steps and outlook
Watch for contract talks, official approaches and how Roma respond — renewal offers or contingency plans.
If Inter secure one or both players, expect immediate tactical adjustments and heightened expectations for squad rotation.
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The summer could reshape both clubs’ trajectories without a single euro in transfer fees.
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