Bergomi Compares Inter Target Khalaili to Hakimi and Palacios, Suggests Lucumi for Defense

Giuseppe Bergomi, an iconic former defender for Inter Milan, has shared his insights on the Nerazzurri’s transfer market activities and defensive needs, drawing parallels between a potential target and established stars. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bergomi expressed his admiration for Anass Khalaili, a player he believes could be Inter’s first summer signing.

Khalaili’s Profile

Bergomi described Khalaili as a player reminiscent of Achraf Hakimi on the right flank, but also noted a profile akin to Exequiel Palacios. He elaborated that Khalaili is more offensively oriented and less physically imposing than current Inter player Denzel Dumfries. Bergomi suggested that Inter has been seeking a player with Khalaili’s characteristics for years.

“I saw him against Italy and he was the best of Israel,” Bergomi stated, referencing Khalaili’s performances. “Then we saw him again in the Champions League against Inter and Atalanta. We’re going back to having an Hakimi on the right, but Khalaili also has a Palacios-like profile. More offensive and less physical than Dumfries, they’ve been looking for someone like this for years.”

Despite Khalaili’s potential, Bergomi acknowledged that the Moroccan-Israeli player offers fewer assists and goals than Dumfries. However, he drew a comparison to Palacios, suggesting that in Inter’s 3-5-2 formation, Khalaili could be more impactful than he was during his time with Union SG.

“Of course, he makes fewer assists and goals than Dumfries, but I said the same about Palacios,” Bergomi added. “In Inter’s 3-5-2, he can become more incisive than what was seen with Saint-Gilloise.”

Bergomi also commented on Inter’s pursuit of Palacios, noting the club’s significant effort. He views the club’s ability to move on to a similar profile after failing to secure Palacios as a positive sign.

Defense Reinforcement

Beyond offensive reinforcements, Bergomi highlighted the pressing need for defensive acquisitions. He specifically mentioned Trevoh Chalobah as a suitable profile for Inter but ultimately favored Jhon Lucumi.

“Now, the main concern is the defense,” Bergomi explained. “Chalobah? He would be the right profile, but another perfect fit for Inter is Lucumi. I would choose him between the two.”

Championship Landscape

Looking ahead to the upcoming Serie A season, Bergomi expressed confidence in Inter’s continued strong performance, stating, “Inter hasn’t made a mistake in the championship in recent years; I see them at the forefront.” He also noted his intrigue with AC Milan’s approach under coach Amorim, who has openly declared his ambition to win. Bergomi also expressed curiosity about Roma’s transfer market strategy, believing that with coach Gasperini, they could achieve significant success.

Key facts

The insights from Bergomi offer a glimpse into Inter Milan’s potential transfer targets and strategic thinking for the upcoming season, particularly concerning offensive wing-backs and defensive solidity. His comparisons provide context for the type of player Inter might be seeking to bolster their squad.

Source: TuttoMercatoWeb – https://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/serie-a/bergomi-khalaili-tipo-hakimi-palestra-difesa-inter-prenderei-lucumi-2252137