Galatasaray plot move for Inter Milan defender Benjamin Pavard

Galatasaray are pushing to sign Inter Milan centre-back Benjamin Pavard this summer (h/t L’Equipe).

After securing Victor Osimhen and Leroy Sane, the Turkish giants are eyeing more high-profile signings to successfully defend the Super Lig title and make a big impact in the Champions League.

Despite failing to sign Inter duo Hakan Calhanoglu and Yann Sommer, Gala have now set their sights on Pavard.

The 2018 World Cup winner played a crucial role in Inter’s 2023/24 Scudetto triumph but failed to hit the same heights last season. His performances were affected by injury woes.

The Nerazzurri are now open to selling Pavard as they value Yann Aurel Bisseck above the Frenchman in the pecking order.

Bisseck wasn’t a regular starter last term, yet he produced impressive performances to become an integral part of the defence. He featured in 46 games in all competitions.

The German centre-back has received a lucrative offer from Premier League Crystal Palace, but he wants to continue making his strides with Inter.

Inter are looking for a fee between €15 and €25 million to part ways with Pavard, whose contract expires in June 2028.

Gala are also financially capable of matching or offering more than his €5 million-per-year salary.

The 29-year-old could be persuaded by the move since he wants prominent game time to nail down a place in France’s squad ahead of next year’s World Cup.

However, Inter could risk depleting their options by getting rid of Pavard. Their search for a new centre-back in the transfer market hasn’t yielded any favourable outcome.

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Inter have lost the transfer battle for Koni De Winter to arch-rivals AC Milan, while their long-term target Giovanni Leoni is slipping away from their sights.

Liverpool have moved ahead in the transfer race for Leoni, and it will be difficult for Inter to compete with the Reds’ financial muscle.

Inter are concerned about the ageing defensive duo Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi and whether they can sustain a high level consistently this season.

Cristian Chivu’s men need a young and solid central defender to team up with Alessandro Bastoni.