Arsenal and Chelsea in talks to sign son of Inter Milan legend | Football
TL;DR – Two-minute read
Aleksandar Stankovic attracted interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Borussia Dortmund following his impressive debut season at Club Brugge, where he made 36 appearances and scored seven goals. The 20-year-old midfielder’s performances caught the attention of top clubs, with Inter Milan retaining a buyback option for £20 million in June. His father, Dejan, praised his son’s transformation in Belgium.
Arsenal and Chelsea are competing for the signature of Club Brugge midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic, as reported by Belgian sources on Sunday. The interest arises amid Stankovic’s impressive debut season, where he has made 36 appearances and scored seven goals.
Stankovic, the son of Inter Milan legend Dejan, has emerged as a promising talent since his departure from Inter Milan last summer. After a loan stint at Luzern, his performances at Club Brugge have drawn the attention of top European clubs, including Borussia Dortmund.
Clubs in Regular Contact
According to Het Laatste Nieuws, Arsenal and Chelsea are in regular communication with Club Brugge and Roc Nation, who represent Stankovic. The 20-year-old is viewed as a significant prospect for both Premier League clubs.
Inter Milan’s Buyback Clause
A potential obstacle for Arsenal and Chelsea is a buyback clause in Stankovic’s contract that allows Inter Milan to re-sign him for €23 million (£20 million) in the first two weeks of June. Should Inter choose not to bring him back, they will receive 50 per cent of any profit from a sale.
Stankovic’s Transformation Highlighted by Father
After Club Brugge’s recent victory, Dejan Stankovic praised his son’s development, stating he is already a better player at 20 than Dejan was at the same age. He acknowledged the challenges Aleksandar faced and the impressive transformation he has undergone this season, adding, “If Aleksandar continues at this pace, he’ll be playing top-level football.”
Stankovic has expressed a desire to one day return to Inter Milan, stating, “I’ve always said I imagined playing at the San Siro as a kid and that remains a dream that I’m pursuing.” His current contract with Club Brugge extends to June 2029.