Inter Milan have reportedly rejected opportunities to sign Atletico Madrid’s Nahuel Molina and Lille’s Thomas Meunier as they search for a replacement for injured wingback Denzel Dumfries. The Nerazzurri are instead focusing on securing two Croatian prospects from Hajduk Split and Dinamo Zagreb.
Inter Milan Turn Down Molina and Meunier as Club Targets Croatian Starlets
According to Gazzetta dello Sport via FCInterNews, sporting director Piero Ausilio has declined the chance to bring both experienced wingbacks to San Siro despite the club’s need for reinforcements. The 27-year-old Molina, who is currently out of favour at Atletico Madrid’s Metropolitano Stadium, was previously a target for Inter before his move to the Spanish capital in 2022.
Thomas Meunier has also been ruled out as a potential signing, with the 34-year-old Belgian not fitting Inter’s current requirements. The former Paris Saint-Germain defender has been operating as a second-choice wingback at Lille since his return to Ligue 1 in 2024, but his age appears to be a significant factor in Inter’s decision to look elsewhere.
Instead, Inter are reportedly close to completing the signing of Hajduk Split prodigy Branimir Mlacic as they look to invest in younger talent. The Italian giants are also prepared to accelerate their pursuit of Dinamo Zagreb teenager Leon Jakirovic, suggesting a clear shift towards developing promising Croatian prospects rather than established players.
The club’s search for wingback reinforcements comes as they look to cover for Dumfries during his injury absence. Inter’s rejection of both Molina and Meunier indicates they are prioritising long-term planning over immediate short-term solutions, with the Croatian duo representing potential future investments rather than quick fixes for their current squad needs.
