- Attacking midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan set to become Inter Milan’s first summer signing
- The Armenian international has chosen Champions League football with Inter over extending his staying in the capital
- The Giallorossi agreed to match Inter’s contact proposal in a last ditch attempt to keep the attacker
Inter Milan have won the race for Henrikh Mkhitaryan after the player rejected Roma’s contract extension. Champions League football is reported to have played a key role in the midfielder choosing to join their league rivals.
Sign up for FREE daily updates
Sign up for FREE daily updates
Mkhitaryan, 33, has been every present for Roma this season, scoring 5 goals and providing 9 assists over 44 appearances.
His form, and positional flexibility has reported to have impressed Inter coach Simone Inzaghi, who has now got his man according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Giallorossi had made an improved contract proposal that matched Inter Milan’s on Monday. The reported €4.2m per season including various add-ons and bonuses was a significant contract offer from Roma given the players advancing years. Ultimately, the lure of Champions League was too tempting for Mkhitaryan, with his entourage informing Roma late Monday that he would not be extending his stay at the Stadio Olimpico.
The signing could be a signal of Inter Milan’s transfer strategy this summer with the majority of their budget being allocated towards the return of Romelu Lukaku.
The Nerazzurri are also reported to be closing in on the signing of Cagliari full back Raoul Bellanova for €8 million, whilst Arturo Vidal looks set to leave with his contract being paid up early.
