Inter Milan are plotting a summer raid on Liverpool to sign full-back Konstantinos Tsimikas after Aston Villa brought Ashley Young back to England, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Young left the San Siro as a Serie A champion last month when his contract with the Italian giants expired. Dean Smith moved swiftly to snap the 35-year-old up on a free transfer, and secure his return to Villa Park a decade after leaving to join Manchester United.
The Englishman’s exit has left the Nerazzurri forced to seek options to strengthen Simone Inzaghi’s ranks at left-back. And, for this, Inter are looking to raid the Premier League with Liverpool defender Tsimikas a name on their shortlist.
Liverpool signed Tsimikas only last summer, but he endured a difficult first year at Anfield. Jurgen Klopp awarded his £12m signing from Olympiakos just five minutes in the Premier League over two outings. The Greek international played a total of 225 in all competitions.
The German could now show the nine-cap full-back the door, with clubs around Europe showing an interest. Along with Inter Milan, Napoli have explored a loan deal for Tsimikas, per Gazzetta dello Sport, after missing out to Liverpool last year.
Klopp was never convinced by Tsimikas’ performances last season, so a loan is felt to suit all parties. Fenerbahce, likewise, have explored a temporary deal, per FotoMac, who also note Liverpool are open to granting a loan transfer.
But Napoli and Fenerbahce now face competition from Inter Milan, who can offer Tsimikas Champions League football, like Liverpool. A move to the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium or Estadio Sukru Saracoglu would offer the defender Europa League action.
Liverpool need Tsimikas depth amid Inter Milan interest
While Klopp was not convinced by Tsimikas last season, Liverpool will likely need him for depth amid Inter Milan’s interest. The £60,000-per-week full-back is the German’s only natural backup for Andrew Robertson, and will want to avoid using James Milner.
Tsimikas will also have a full pre-season to work under Klopp and build his fitness this year. Injuries held the 25-year-old back from making an impact from the off last term, with his first league minutes not coming until February.
And by then, Liverpool’s form had dropped off, so Klopp could only stick with Robertson. The Scot had offered five assists by the turn of the year, proven his endless availability and gives the German everything he needs in the position. Potentially leaving a big gap.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
