Tottenham and Manchester United are both interested in signing Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij in the next transfer window
An abundance of Premier League clubs is reportedly interested in signing Stefan de Vrij, as reported by Calcio Mercato. The Premier League club Manchester United has joined the pursuit of the Dutch defender, who is also wanted by Tottenham. However, if the player has a change of heart, Inter Milan will listen to any offers they get.
Five years ago, Stefan de Vrij was a pivotal acquisition for Inter Milan. The pivotal defender was a key cog in their defence that helped them win the Serie A championship with Antonio Conte as a coach. The Dutchman once again showed his expertise last season, helping the Nerazzurri to a runner-up finish.
Although Inter Milan has plenty of other central defenders on the bench, they still want to keep the veteran De Vrij. Simone Inzaghi must think highly of his second-most-used player this season. The Dutchman’s contract is set to expire in the summer, and the Serie A powerhouses are eager to keep him around for another season.
The 30-year-old defender is mulling over his future at the San Siro, but he knows that his next contract might be his final major one. The central defender is looking to make the most of this chance and is keeping his options open by not closing himself up to offers from other teams.
While Real Madrid showed interest, the prospect of playing in the Premier League may be more appealing to the 30-year-old defender. He would be an instant starter for several English clubs. Tottenham and Manchester United seem to be competing for his signature, so he may still have the option of signing with one of the top clubs.
Because his contract is about to expire, Premier League teams see him as a cheap and reliable defensive option. Spurs had been seen as the frontrunners all along because of Conte’s familiarity with the player and the fact that the Dutchman is a good match for the Italian’s system.
Spurs often use a back-three formation, while De Vrij has a similar position for Inter Milan. Conte is anxious for a defender of the Dutchman’s calibre to join the team. Spurs continue to let in too many goals with the current roster, so it’s clear that they need to make some changes.
Manchester United have allegedly joined the race to sign the 30-year-old defender. According to reports, Erik ten Hag is eager for his countryman to join the defence. This season, the Dutch coach has started with Raphael Varane and summer addition Lisandro Martinez at centre-back, leaving Harry Maguire on the bench next to Viktor Lindelof.
If Man United decides to trade Maguire, Ten Hag hopes that the club will bring in an experienced defender to aid the squad. The Red Devils may be able to give De Vrij, a 30-year-old defender, a lucrative deal.
Inter Milan, meantime, will try to test De Vrij’s mettle by offering to extend his contract. The Serie A giants may consider looking at proposals from Premier League teams for the 30-year-old defender if they get the sense that the player wants to go.
