Inter Milan to Battle with Premier League Clubs for Johan Vásquez
By Sam Plummer
Inter Milan is reportedly keen on signing Mexican defender Johan Vásquez, currently with Genoa, as they seek to strengthen their defence ahead of the new season. The reigning Serie A champions view Vásquez as a potential key addition to bolster their backline and support their quest to retain the domestic title and make a strong push in the Champions League.
Along with Edson Álvarez and Santiago Giménez, Vásquez is one of the biggest names coming out of Mexican football right now.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Johan Vásquez began his professional career with Cimarrones de Sonora, where his impressive performances caught the attention of top Mexican clubs. This led to his move to Monterrey in 2018, although he found limited playing time there. Seeking more opportunities, Vásquez joined Pumas UNAM, where he quickly established himself as a reliable central defender. His solid displays with Pumas earned him a move to Europe, signing with Genoa in 2021. During the 2022-23 campaign, he was loaned to Cremonese, further enhancing his reputation in Serie A despite the club’s struggles.
Style of Play
Vásquez is known for his robust defensive abilities, combining physicality with intelligent positioning. He is comfortable playing out from the back, showcasing good ball control and passing accuracy. His versatility allows him to play as a left-back if needed, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to solidify their defense.
International Success
Vásquez’s consistent performances at the club level earned him a place in the Mexican national team. Alongside César Montes, he has become one of Mexico's premier center-backs. Vásquez played a crucial role in the recent Copa América, where despite Mexico being knocked out in the group stage by Ecuador and Venezuela, his contributions were highly praised.
Transfer Interest
Inter Milan’s interest in Vásquez is part of their strategy to reinforce their defense following injuries and potential departures within their squad. The club’s sporting director, Piero Ausilio, has identified Vásquez as a fitting candidate due to his left-footed profile and Serie A experience (TV Azteca) (Soy Referee).
Meanwhile, several Premier League clubs are also eyeing Vásquez, though specific names have not been disclosed. These clubs are expected to be in the top half of the table, indicating a high level of competition for his signature (TV Azteca).
Vásquez, under contract with Genoa until 2027, has an estimated market value of around 10 million euros. As the transfer window progresses, his next destination remains a hot topic, with both Inter Milan and Premier League clubs keen on securing his services.
For more details, you can check the full articles on Fox Sports and Marca.