Inter Milan transfers: Why Italian champions may block summer move for Akinsanmiro

Super Eagles midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro could be handed an opportunity to remain at Italian champions Inter Milan this summer despite growing uncertainty over his future, Afrik-Foot reports.

The future of the 21-year-old has been uncertain since the conclusion of his loan spell at Pisa. Akinsanmiro spent last season with the club and went on to make 24 appearances, although he was unable to help the club avoid relegation.

Pisa had the option to make the deal permanent but ultimately decided against activating the clause, leading to Akinsanmiro’s return to Inter ahead of the new campaign.

Since then, the Nigerian midfielder has reportedly attracted interest from Serie A side Bologna as well as clubs in the Bundesliga, with several teams monitoring his situation as they consider a move during the summer transfer window.

The Super Eagles midfielder joined Inter Milan from Nigerian club Remo Stars in 2023 and initially featured for the club’s Primavera side before earning promotion to the senior team. So far, he has made just one first-team appearance, spending the last two seasons out on loan in search of regular football.

While a permanent departure has appeared to be the most likely outcome, recent developments suggest the youngster may have a future at San Siro.

Why Inter Milan could keep Ebenezer Akinsanmiro this summer

Akinsanmiro returned to Inter Milan facing uncertainty over where he would play next season. However, reports indicate that head coach Cristian Chivu is impressed by the midfielder’s qualities and is open to keeping him in his squad.

The Nerazzurri are expected to undergo a massive rebuild this summer following a disappointing campaign in Europe last season. Despite reclaiming the Serie A title, they suffered an early exit from the UEFA Champions League after being knocked out by Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt, failing to build on their run to the 2024-25 final.

The Italian champions are therefore expected to strengthen several areas of the squad this summer and have also been linked with Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye as they prepare for life after veteran goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

Despite this, Chivu believes Akinsanmiro has the ability to contribute to the first team. Rather than sanctioning an immediate sale, the Inter boss is considering giving the Nigerian midfielder an opportunity to impress during pre-season before making a final decision on his future.

Pre-season could decide Akinsanmiro’s future

Inter Milan are scheduled to begin their pre-season campaign with a friendly against German side Karlsruher later this month, before facing Premier League giants Manchester City and city rivals AC Milan.

Those fixtures could prove decisive for Akinsanmiro and a series of impressive performances could convince Chivu that the midfielder deserves a place in the squad for next season and potentially establish him as a part of their long-term plans.

However, the situation remains far from settled and Inter Milan could still decide to cash in if they receive a major offer from the interested clubs, especially if the 21-year-old fails to meet expectations during pre-season.

The coming weeks may prove to be the most important of Akinsanmiro’s career, with a strong pre-season potentially earning him a place in Chivu’s plans ahead of next season.