Since the 2010-11 season, Italian giants Internazionale have not managed to win a single piece of silverware and have struggled to keep their reputation intact. Since the appointment of Steven Zhang as the president of the club, the club has looked more motivated and determined to win trophies and that reflects in their present activity in the transfer window. Since the move of Ronaldo to the Serie A, Italy has suddenly become the Ibiza of footballers, where they are going to rediscover their form.
Inter have used this trend the best and have done serious business throughout two transfer windows. Here are some of their best recruitments.
Romelu Lukaku
The big Belgian joined the Nerazzuri in the summer from Manchester United for a record 74 million euros and have cemented his place as the ideal strike partner for Lautaro Martinez. The 26-year-old has directly contributed to 16 goals in 21 games, scoring 14 and assisting two. His goalscoring spree has boosted his confidence and also Inter's hope to challenge for the Serie A title. Under Conte, he has evolved a more lethal and direct centre forward compared to his time with the English giants where he was not getting sufficient service to feed on.
Diego Godin
The influential centre back joined Inter after featuring for Atletico Madrid for eight long years. The veteran has become a regular in the back four and Inter have conceded just 18 goals in 21 games this season.
Though 33 years old, Godin's prowess in undisputed. His commanding nature helped Handanovic in leading the side. Inter have looked more compact defensively with him on the field. Godin also provides a natural aerial threat. He has already lodged an assist against Udinese. If Inter wants to rise back to their historical best, Godin's contribution will be immensely crucial.
Alexis Sanchez
The Chilean joined on a loan deal to Inter after a sorry run of form for Manchester United, where he was mostly left out of the team under Solskjaer. But the Chilean has not made it count at Italy as he has appeared only six times since joining in the summer. His season has been plagued with injuries and his service has been limited.
The former Barcelona forward is known for his technical gift and his tenacity to work. So, the plan to include him in the scheme is clear on the part of the management. But whether he can bring his career back on track is something that will remain in doubt.
Ashley Young
It might look like Inter have signed a hidden deal to buy every out of form Manchester United player. Ashley Young has joined Inter in the winter transfer window and has rediscovered his form in the very first match, providing an assist.
The 34-year-old winger turned full-back joined on a meagre 1.5 million euro. He is back at his preferred right-wing under Conte and as it appeared in the first match, he still has the quality to play for a top team.
Though the tenure of his service remains uncertain given his age, the transfer only reflect the managements will to hit a proper balance between experience and youth in the team.
Victor Moses
Antonio Conte's love for the Nigerian international is nothing new as he was almost a regular in the team during Conte's stay at Chelsea. So, it is not much of a surprise to see Victor Moses join Inter.
The 29-year-old is known for his pace and ability to cross. With Lukaku up front, Conte would look to bring in Moses' crossing ability to play at San Siro.
Feature image courtesy: AFP/ Miguel Medina
