Inter Milan Targets Sassuolo Defensive Duo to Revitalize Aging Backline

Inter Milan is moving to secure the future of its defense, prioritizing a move for the defensive partnership at Sassuolo to replace a veteran core that is beginning to reveal its age. The Nerazzurri have identified Tarik Muharemovic and Jay Idzes as key targets to ensure the club’s defensive stability remains intact for the coming seasons.

The move comes as Inter looks to avoid a sudden drop in quality as several long-serving defenders approach the complete of their peak years or consider departures. By targeting the tandem from Sassuolo, Inter is not just looking for individual talent, but a pre-existing chemistry that could accelerate the integration process at the San Siro.

The Sassuolo Connection: Muharemovic and Idzes

Tarik Muharemovic has emerged as a primary target for Inter. The defender has impressed throughout his tenure at Sassuolo, showcasing the tactical discipline and physical presence required for a top-tier Serie A side. His ability to read the game and contribute to the build-up play has made him one of the most sought-after young center-backs in Italy.

Alongside him, Jay Idzes has caught the eye of Europe’s elite. Idzes has formed a solid partnership with Muharemovic, and his performances have not gone unnoticed beyond the borders of Italy. While Inter views him as a vital component of their defensive overhaul, Idzes has also entered the radar of Premier League giants Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

For Inter, the appeal lies in the “tandem” effect. Bringing in two players who already understand each other’s movements and communication styles reduces the risk typically associated with introducing new center-backs into a high-pressure system.

The Sassuolo Business Model

Sassuolo appears resigned to the eventual departure of their defensive stars, as it aligns with the club’s long-term operational philosophy. Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has been transparent about the club’s role as a stepping stone for emerging talent.

Speaking to Sky Sport, Carnevali confirmed that the departure of players like Muharemovic is an expected part of the club’s “plan.” He emphasized that Sassuolo’s core value is to identify young players, help them grow, and eventually facilitate their move to larger clubs.

“We have always been a club that tries to value young people, make them grow and give them the opportunity to go to a big club. What we have is what we work for every day,” Carnevali stated.

While the CEO acknowledged that requests for the players are already arriving, he noted that the club’s immediate priority is survival in Serie A. This suggests that while the exits are inevitable, the timing will be dictated by Sassuolo’s need for stability during the current campaign.

A Battle for the San Siro

Inter Milan is not the only club in Milan eyeing the Sassuolo pair. AC Milan has also expressed interest in both Jay Idzes and Tarik Muharemovic as long-term options for their own backline. The Rossoneri have considered various short-term fixes, such as Axel Disasi and Niklas Sule, but view the Sassuolo duo as more sustainable, permanent solutions for the summer window.

This creates a familiar competitive dynamic between the two Milan giants. With both clubs needing to rejuvenate their defenses, the race for Muharemovic and Idzes could become a significant subplot of the upcoming transfer window. The competition is further intensified by the interest from the English Premier League, where the financial pull of Manchester United and Tottenham could complicate Inter’s plans.

Strategic Timing and Implications

Despite the high level of interest, a January move remains unlikely. Sassuolo is keen to retain both Idzes and Muharemovic through the winter to aid their fight for safety in Serie A. For the buying clubs, this means the battle will likely reach a crescendo in the summer transfer window.

For Inter Milan, the urgency is driven by the natural lifecycle of their current squad. The “buritan” (stern/back) of the defense is increasingly viewed as aging, and the club is prioritizing these targets to ensure there is no gap in quality when the veterans eventually depart.

The tactical implication of signing both players would be a significant shift toward a younger, more mobile defensive line. By securing a duo that has already proven its efficacy together at Sassuolo, Inter can maintain its defensive identity while lowering the average age of its starting XI.

Key Transfer Factors

• The “Tandem” Strategy: Inter prefers signing both Idzes and Muharemovic to preserve existing chemistry.
• Sassuolo’s Policy: CEO Giovanni Carnevali has confirmed the club’s model is to sell developed youth to big clubs.
• The Competition: AC Milan, Manchester United, and Tottenham are all monitoring the players.
• Timeline: Summer is the expected window for permanent moves, as Sassuolo prioritizes league safety in the short term.

As the 2025-2026 season progresses, the focus will remain on how Idzes and Muharemovic perform in the fight for Sassuolo’s survival. Their ability to maintain a high level of play under pressure will likely determine their final market value and which of the chasing clubs ultimately wins the race for their signatures.

The next official update on these potential moves is expected to coincide with the opening of the summer transfer window, as clubs finalize their budgets and Sassuolo determines its standing in Serie A.

What do you think about Inter Milan targeting a pre-made defensive duo? Let us know in the comments below.