Inter Milan would reportedly sanction Milan Skriniar’s move to Manchester City as long as they get Gabriel Jesus in return, reports in Italy and England suggest
Skriniar has emerged as one of Pep Guardiola’s top defensive targets for the upcoming transfer window after reeling off a series of impressive performances for Inter.
The 25-year-old centre-back arrived from Sampdoria in the summer of 2017 and has gone on to make over 120 appearances and establish himself as one of the most sought-after defenders in Serie A.
Manchester United are long-term admirers of Skriniar and are said to have tabled an offer in the region of £60million, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to bolster his defensive options ahead of the new season.
However, Guardiola is also determined to strengthen his backline in the summer, particularly in light of the uncertainty surrounding the future of Fernandinho and Nicolas Otamendi.
The Sky Blues saw their European ban lifted today and will be keen to reinforce their squad in the coming months to keep the team competitive next season.
Antonio Conte would be open to swapping Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar (25) in exchange for #ManCity’s Gabriel Jesus (23).
— City Chief (@City_Chief) July 12, 2020
[@Sport_Mediaset via sempreinter] pic.twitter.com/U23RFhWAsm
As reported by the Italian outlet, SportMediaSet, as relayed by the Sports Illustrated, City may have the upper hand on cross-town rivals, as Inter would like to have Gabriel Jesus on board next year.
Lautaro Martinez seems likely to join Barcelona at the end of the 2019/20 season, which would leave Antonio Conte short of reliable attacking options.
Therefore, the former Chelsea boss would be inclined to accept the Brazilian forward in exchange for the Slovakian defender to find a new long-term partner for Romelu Lukaku.
Despite netting 20 goals in all competitions this term, Jesus has been deemed ‘not good enough’ by some City fans after enduring a dip in form lately.
Indeed, the 23-year-old forward has yet to convince Manchester City that he could be Sergio Aguero’s heir once the Argentinean star leaves the Etihad.