Inter Milan have set out the conditions of any potential sale of goalkeeper Andre Onana to Chelsea this summer, but will demand two players from the west London side.
The goalkeeper arrived at the club on a free transfer just 12 months ago after having been banned from football during his time at Ajax for testing positive for a banned substance, and he has quickly made himself one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Displacing Samir Handanovic for Simone Inzaghi’s side, Onana has kept 8 clean sheets in the Italian top flight, conceding just 19 times in 22 outings.
Milano, Italy. 22nd Feb, 2023. Andre Onana and Hakan Calhanoglu of Fc Internazionale argue with Porto players during the Champions League football match between FC Internazionale and FC Porto at San Siro stadium in Milano (Italy), February 22th, 2023. Pho 2NJCBM4 Milano, Italy. 22nd Feb, 2023. Andre Onana and Hakan Calhanoglu of Fc Internazionale argue with Porto players during the Champions League football match between FC Internazionale and FC Porto at San Siro stadium in Milano (Italy), February 22th, 2023. Photo Andrea Staccioli/Insidefoto Credit: Insidefoto di andrea staccioli/Alamy Live News (Alamy Stock Photo)
Such form has reportedly caught the eye of Chelsea, who are keen to upgrade their own options in goal. Kepa Arrizabalaga has replaced Edouard Mendy in recent months, but there is a feeling that both could depart this summer should offers come in, with neither shot-stopper inspiring confidence in what has been an underwhelming campaign for the Blues.
Earlier in the season, it seemed that the Nerazzuri had ruled out any departure of their no.1.
“Onana leaving for €40m? I’d rule this out, honestly. We think he will stay”, Inter CEO Marotta explained.
As per Italian outlet Republicca, however, they could be tempted into parting ways with the goalkeeper, provided that Chelsea offer Kalidou Koulibaly in exchange, and also agree to extend Romelu Lukaku’s loan deal, which is due to expire this summer.
Koulibaly is one of those potentially free to leave this summer just 12 months after arriving at Stamford Bridge after a very mixed season, while the future of Romelu Lukaku remains unclear amid speculation that Mauricio Pochettino may wish to reintegrate him into the Chelsea squad.
A deal to bring Onana to Stamford Bridge, however, could be too good to turn down for the Blues.