Inter are reportedly closing in on the signing of Keita Balde from Monaco as they look to continue to strengthen their squad this summer.
The Nerazzurri are back in the Champions League after their dramatic end to last season which saw them leapfrog Lazio into fourth place in the table with a win over their rivals on the last day.
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In turn, they’ve been busy strengthening the squad this summer to ensure that they’re not only deep enough to compete on various fronts, but can also make a positive impression on their return to Europe’s top table.
That has resulted in the likes of Stefan de Vrij, Radja Nainggolan and Lautaro Martinez all signing, and now La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Keita could be the next new addition from Monaco in an initial loan switch with an option to buy.
The 23-year-old scored eight goals in 33 appearances for the Ligue 1 outfit last season, but it was his previous spell in Italy with Lazio which showcased his quality as he bagged 31 goals in 137 appearances and impressed with his pace, movement, technical quality and eye for goal.
Coupled with the likes of Mauro Icardi, Ivan Perisic and Matteo Politano, Spalletti will arguably feel as though he’s got the necessary balance and experience in the side to compete both at home and in Europe in the upcoming campaign.
Nevertheless, time will tell if a deal is completed for Keita, with the report above suggesting that it could be merely a matter of time before he seals a return to Serie A and a potentially fundamental role under Spalletti at the San Siro.