Nottingham Forest have reportedly reignited their interest in Inter's Davide Frattesi, but another Serie A midfielder could stand in the way of a potential transfer.
It is no secret that Nottingham Forest are long-term admirers of Davide Frattesi. After a failed pursuit in January, the Reds look set to reignite their interest in the Italian midfielder this summer.
With Elliot Anderson looking set for a move away from the City Ground before the new season, with Manchester City and Manchester United both interested, a midfield reinforcement is inevitable before the transfer window closes.
Frattesi remains highly regarded, but his impact for Inter has been minimal. Just 18 Serie A starts since arriving at the San Siro mean that the club are now actively looking to move him on.
While this may seem like good news for Forest’s ambitions to land the midfielder, there is a major stumbling block.
If reports in Italy are to be believed, Frattesi would ideally like a return to his hometown club AS Roma. It just so happens that Roma have a player whom Inter would also like.
Manu Koné in action for France at the 2024 Olympic Games. (Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con)Manu Koné has been a pivotal player in the Italian capital. His performances mean that he is heading to the World Cup with France, and if Inter get their way, he could soon be joining the Serie A champions.
Alongside fulfilling Frattesi’s desire to return to his hometown, whom he played for for three years at youth level, a swap deal would save Inter crucial funds, which do not come easily in Serie A.
Roma are reported to want in the region of £43 million for Kone, due to their need to meet financial rules, which would represent Inter’s second most expensive signing ever.
Including a player like Frattesi, who they value at more than £20 million, in a potential deal could significantly reduce the required fee. It would also solve a key issue for Roma: the need to sign a replacement.
Adding to this, Forest's lack of European football for next season, and a deal for Frattesi looks complicated to say the least.
The good news for Forest is that midfield options will not be in short supply this summer and, with a fee in excess of £100 million expected if Anderson does depart, the Reds will have the money for a sufficient replacement.
Although Frattesi is a talent, missing out on the Italian, who, alongside inconsistent playing time, has endured injury-riddled campaigns of late, would not be a disaster.
Forest boss Vitor Pereira has remained adamant that he wants transfer business concluded as quickly as possible this summer to maximise his first pre-season on Trentside, and there is no indication as to why that will not happen.
