Inter Milan have intensified their pursuit of Anan Khalaili, with negotiations now underway between the Serie A giants and Belgian champions Union Saint-Gilloise as the Nerazzurri look to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season. Reports from Italy suggest Inter have entered direct talks over a deal that could be worth around €25 million plus add-ons, while Napoli's earlier pursuit has lost momentum, leaving Cristian Chivu's side in pole position. At the time of writing, no agreement has been officially confirmed, but discussions are said to be progressing.
The potential arrival of the 21-year-old Israeli international would represent another statement of intent from Inter as they continue reshaping their squad with an eye on competing for Serie A, the Coppa Italia and the UEFA Champions League.
Inter Step Up Their Pursuit
Inter's interest in Anan Khalaili has developed rapidly over the past fortnight.
Initially linked with Napoli, the winger has emerged as one of the most sought-after young attacking players in Belgium following his impressive displays for Union Saint-Gilloise. As Napoli's negotiations slowed over valuation, Inter moved decisively to begin direct discussions with the Belgian club.
According to reports, Union Saint-Gilloise value the player at approximately €25 million plus bonuses, and Inter are prepared to negotiate around that figure.
While personal terms are also reported to be progressing, neither Inter nor Union Saint-Gilloise has officially announced an agreement, meaning the transfer remains subject to further negotiations and final approval.
Who Is Anan Khalaili?
Born in Haifa, Israel, Anan Khalaili emerged through Maccabi Haifa's academy before earning a move to Union Saint-Gilloise in 2024.
Still only 21, he has already established himself as an Israeli international and has gained valuable experience in both domestic competition and European football.
Although primarily a right winger, Khalaili is admired for his versatility. He can also operate on the left flank and, when required, as a more advanced wing-back in systems that demand attacking width.
That flexibility is one of the reasons Inter view him as an attractive long-term addition.
Why Inter Want Khalaili
Adding pace and directness
Inter's recruitment strategy has increasingly focused on signing younger players capable of developing into elite performers.
Khalaili fits that profile perfectly.
His explosive acceleration, willingness to attack defenders one-on-one and ability to carry the ball over long distances make him a different type of winger from many currently available on the market.
Rather than relying solely on intricate passing combinations, he frequently drives directly at defenders, forcing them into uncomfortable situations.
That direct style could add another dimension to Inter's attack.
A Tactical Fit Under Cristian Chivu
Cristian Chivu's tactical approach places enormous emphasis on width.
Whether Inter line up in a back three or a back four, wide players are expected to stretch opposing defences while contributing both offensively and defensively.
Khalaili's athleticism allows him to recover possession quickly, while his dribbling ability makes him dangerous in transition.
His versatility also gives Chivu greater tactical flexibility throughout a long campaign.
Instead of being limited to one position, Khalaili can adapt depending on the opponent and match situation.
Background
Union Saint-Gilloise Continue to Develop Top Talent
Union Saint-Gilloise have become one of Europe's most admired talent-development clubs.
In recent seasons, the Belgian side have consistently identified promising young players before helping them develop into assets capable of attracting interest from Europe's biggest leagues.
Khalaili is the latest example.
After arriving from Maccabi Haifa, he adapted quickly to Belgian football while gaining valuable European experience.
Those performances have naturally attracted attention from clubs competing at the highest level.
Competition for His Signature
Inter are not the only club to have admired Khalaili.
Napoli spent weeks pursuing the Israeli international before negotiations reportedly slowed over the transfer valuation.
That created an opportunity Inter have moved quickly to exploit.
Moving decisively in the transfer market has often been a hallmark of successful clubs, particularly when competing for emerging talent.
Expert Analysis
More Than Just Another Transfer
Should Inter complete this deal, the significance extends beyond simply adding another winger.
Khalaili represents the type of modern footballer increasingly valued across Europe.
Comfortable in multiple positions, technically gifted and tactically adaptable, he fits the profile of players capable of evolving alongside a manager's tactical ideas.
Rather than signing an ageing star for immediate impact, Inter appear focused on securing a player whose best years may still lie ahead.
That strategy has served several elite clubs well in recent seasons.
The Financial Perspective
Although the reported valuation is significant for a young player, Inter may view the investment as one with long-term value.
If Khalaili continues his upward trajectory, his market value could rise substantially over the coming seasons.
Equally important is his ability to contribute immediately while still offering room for further development.
What This Means for Inter
If negotiations are completed successfully, Inter would strengthen one of the most important areas of the pitch.
The arrival of a dynamic wide attacker would provide increased competition within the squad while offering Chivu additional tactical options across domestic and European competitions.
Supporters will also view the move as another sign that the club intends to remain competitive despite increasing competition across Serie A.
Fan Debate
💬 Do you think Anan Khalaili would be a smart signing for Inter Milan?
- ⚽ Goal — Perfect signing for Inter.
- 🔥 Fire — Huge upgrade for the squad.
- 😲 Shock — Unexpected move; I'm surprised.
- 👍 Like — Good deal, but let's see how he adapts.
Share your thoughts in the comments: can Khalaili become Inter's next breakout star, or should the Nerazzurri look elsewhere?
Comments (1)
Anonymous
7/9/2026 at 08:09 PM
Omo