Inter Milan have reportedly identified Mario Hermoso as the potential heir of Francesco Acerbi starting next season.
The Italian veteran has been recently found not guilty in the racism allegation case due to the lack of evidence.
But despite the verdict, the 36-year-old’s reputation still took a major hit.
So according to La Gazzetta dello Sport via FcInter1908, Acerbi’s future at Inter is now hanging in the balance.
The Nerazzurri are reportedly unsure whether the veteran will emotionally recover from the ugly row.
Moreover, the player’s advanced age and his recent injury record are additional factors to consider.
Therefore, Hermoso has now emerged as a potential candidate to replace the Italian veteran.
The centre-back is a 28-year-old Spain international who’s also left-footed. He also has experience at playing in a three-man backline.
The defender started his career at Real Madrid’s youth ranks but then went on to make a name for himself at Espanyol.
His exploits in Catalunya earned him a return to the Spanish capital in 2019, but this time through the gates of Atletico Madrid.
Hermoso has now cemented himself as a pillar in Diego Simeone’s backline.
However, the Spaniard’s contract will expire at the end of the season. The Colchoneros are struggling to find an agreement with the player over a renewal.
Mario Hermoso Emerges As Possible Replacement For Francesco Acerbi At Inter Milan
Therefore, Hermoso could become one of the most sought-after free agents in the summer.
As the source notes, the Spain international may have suitors in the Premier League. Nevertheless, Inter could sway him by offering a net salary worth 5 million euros.
The pink newspaper also mentions two other potential candidates who remain in the background. The first is Bayern Munich’s Kim Min-jae, with the other being West Ham’s Konstantinos Mavropanos.
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