Inter eye January move for Atletico Madrid defender

 

Inter are weighing up a January move for Atletico Madrid defender Jose Gimenez, reports Tuttosport, via Football Italia.

 

Luciano Spalletti’s side failed to sign another centre-back at the end of the summer window after showing late interest in Premier League duo Eliaquim Mangala and Shkodran Mustafi.

 

Inter will instead turn their attentions to Gimenez when the January transfer window opens after being told all Atletico players were off limits during the summer.

 

Diego Simeone’s side would not have been able to replace Gimenez in pre-season but their FIFA-imposed transfer ban will be lifted at the end of the year, paving the way for Gimenez’s potential departure.

 

The 22-year-old will only have six months remaining on his existing deal in January and would be free to strike a pre-contractual agreement with the Serie A giants at the turn of the year.

 

However, Inter are considering a move to secure a cut-price deal for the Atletico defender, who has a €65m (£59.8m) release clause.

 

Inter eye January move for Atletico Madrid defender

 

The Uruguay international dropped down the pecking order under Simeone last season and only started 12 matches in La Liga, although has played every minute of their league campaign this time around.

 

In two matches, Gimenez has already scored as many league goals this season than he managed in 27 matches last term (1).