AMBITION: Inter Milan Plotting ‘Blockbuster’ Free Transfer for Man City Legend Bernardo Silva
By 247sportcity | Thursday, January 22, 2026
MILAN – In the corridors of the San Siro, the wheels are already turning for what could be the most sensational transfer window in recent Italian history. Inter Milan, fresh off a historic 20th Scudetto, are reportedly preparing a masterstroke that would send ripples across the European landscape. The target? Manchester City’s “Midfield Maestro,” Bernardo Silva.
According to a report by FCInter1908, Inter’s legendary CEO Beppe Marotta—the undisputed king of the free transfer—is “hellbent” on luring the 31-year-old Portuguese international to Serie A. With Silva’s current contract at the Etihad Stadium set to expire in June 2026, the Nerazzurri are preparing an audacious “Bosman” deal to secure one of the world’s most technically gifted players for a grand total of zero euros.
The ‘Marotta Masterclass’: Value Over Volume
Inter Milan’s recruitment strategy under Marotta has become the envy of Europe. While other giants splurge hundreds of millions, the Nerazzurri have perfected the art of identifying world-class talent reaching the end of their contracts.
Bernardo Silva fits this profile perfectly. After nine trophy-laden years under Pep Guardiola—including a historic Treble and multiple Premier League titles—Silva has reportedly communicated his desire for a “new cycle.” While the diminutive star has long been linked with a move to Barcelona or a return to Benfica, Inter believe the allure of leading their project in Italy could trump all other offers.
[Table: Inter’s Summer 2026 Rebuild — The Priority List]
The pursuit of Silva is just one piece of a massive jigsaw puzzle Marotta and Director of Sport Piero Ausilio are assembling for the summer.
| Position | Outgoing Player | Targeted Replacement | Status |
| Playmaker | N/A (Reinforcement) | Bernardo Silva | Initial Inquiries Made |
| Goalkeeper | Yann Sommer | Emiliano Martinez | Prime Summer Target |
| Wingback | Denzel Dumfries | Marco Palestra | Long-term Target |
| Attacking Mid | Henrikh Mkhitaryan | Nico Paz | Complicated by Buy-back |
The Nico Paz Complication
Inter’s initial plan for the summer involved the breakout star of the season, Nico Paz. The Argentine youngster has revolutionized Serie A with Como, leading the league in chances created and key passes.
However, the “Paz Dream” has hit a significant stumbling block. Real Madrid, who sold Paz to Como in 2024, hold a €9 million buy-back clause valid until June 2026. With Madrid expected to trigger that clause to either integrate him or flip him for a massive profit, Inter have had to pivot. This strategic shift has directly led them to Bernardo Silva—a player who provides even more experience and versatility than the young Argentine.
A Total Defensive Overhaul
While the Silva rumors are grabbing headlines, Inter are also dealing with a looming crisis between the posts. Long-time servant Yann Sommer is in the final months of his deal, and at 37, the club is unlikely to offer a long-term extension.
The man identified to fill the void is none other than Aston Villa’s World Cup winner, Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez. Reports suggest Inter have already initiated contact with the Argentine’s representatives. Landing Martinez alongside Silva would represent a massive statement of intent, signaling that Inter are no longer just Serie A favorites, but genuine Champions League contenders.
The Denzel Dumfries Departure?
The right flank is the final area of concern. Denzel Dumfries is currently recovering from ankle surgery and is expected back in February, but speculation regarding his future persists. If the Dutchman opts for a Premier League move in the summer, Inter will dive back into the market for a high-intensity wingback, with Atalanta academy product Marco Palestra high on the shortlist.
The Verdict: A New Era at San Siro
Beppe Marotta is a man who rarely misses. By targeting Bernardo Silva on a free transfer, Inter are attempting to repeat the success they found with players like Hakan Çalhanoglu and Marcus Thuram—taking elite talent and giving them a platform to dominate in Italy.
Silva’s technical quality, composure in possession, and relentless work rate would make him the perfect fit for Cristian Chivu’s tactical setup. If Inter can fight off interest from Barcelona and Saudi Arabia, they won’t just be signing a player; they will be signing a symbol of their return to the pinnacle of world football.