Francesco Acerbi has completed his move to Inter, on loan with an option to buy from Lazio, after weeks of wrangling and controversy, but his agent assures there is ‘no worry’ at a tense welcome from fans.
Coach Simone Inzaghi was determined to reunite with his former player and repeatedly stated in interviews and press conferences over the last few days that he expected another centre-back to complete the squad.
It was suggested that Inter President Steven Zhang had blocked the deal because he did not want to further increase the wage bill at San Siro.
However, Inzaghi won out and Acerbi had his medical this afternoon, arriving on loan with an option to buy at the end of the season.
It’s reported Inter will cover the Italy international’s entire salary for the loan period.
He will wear shirt Number 15.
There was tension from all camps, because Acerbi was effectively frozen out of the Lazio squad after his rapport with the ultras deteriorated beyond repair and they demanded his sale.
Inter fans weren’t entirely happy with the move either, as Acerbi was spotted laughing after an error allowed Milan to beat Lazio in stoppages last season, a result that was crucial for the Scudetto race.
Acerbi insisted it was a laugh of hysterical fury more than of enjoyment.
“There are no worries for how Acerbi will be welcomed, as he proved that he wanted Inter,” assured agent Andrea Pastorello.
“He wanted this move with all his strength. Inzaghi wanted him too and Francesco is very happy.”