The summer of 2026 is casting its shadow ahead and Leon Goretzka is already at the center of the international rumour mill. Following his imminent departure from FC Bayern, the international will be on the market on a free transfer. Interest in the 31-year-old is correspondingly high
In addition to numerous clubs from the Bundesliga, Premier League, La Liga and Süper Lig, Inter Milan are now apparently also getting involved in the poker game. As the Italian portal L’Interista reports, the Nerazzurri are monitoring the situation surrounding Goretzka very closely. According to the report, league leaders Inter are looking for more physical presence and dynamism in the center of midfield – attributes that are attributed to the Bayern professional
Inter see sporting profile – but do the math
In sporting terms, Goretzka would fit the bill perfectly: his experience at the highest level, his goalscoring threat from midfield and his international experience make him an attractive option for ambitious clubs
However, one key point could make the deal more difficult: the salary. Goretzka currently earns just under 18 million a year at FC Bayern. It would be difficult for Inter Milan to afford such a salary. Added to this would be a generous signing bonus, which a free transfer player of his stature usually demands
This overall financial structure is apparently not only causing caution in Milan: other interested parties are also said to be waiting to see whether the midfielder’s salary expectations can be adjusted
Europe’s top clubs on the lookout
Numerous clubs have been linked with Goretzka in recent weeks, with reports including Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, FC Barcelona, Galatasaray Istanbul and Bayer Leverkusen alongside Inter and AC Milan
The 31-year-old may indeed be spoilt for choice. He is still performing at a good level in sporting terms, has international experience and can be deployed flexibly. In the end, the decisive factor will be which overall package suits both sides – in sporting and economic terms.
