Inter legend Diego Milito confirms Atletico Madrid were close to signing Lautaro Martinez in 2017, but the former striker informed Javier Zanetti about negotiations, so the Nerazzurri hijacked the Colchoneros’ bid.
Lautaro was close to signing for Atletico Madrid at the end of 2017 when he was under contract with Argentinean club Racing Club de Avellaneda.
Ex-Inter striker Milito was among the directors of the Argentinean side and eventually played a key role in Lautaro’s transfer to the Stadio Meazza in 2018.
“Simply, Inter were better and readier to get him,” El Principe told Gazzetta.
“When I became a director at Racing, negotiations with Atletico Madrid were ongoing already. There was a gap of two or three million, not more. I called Javier Zanetti because I knew Inter were interested too, so they made their move. Piero Ausilio came here and we closed the deal. I don’t think I convinced him to go one way or the other, but I am happy it ended like this.
“It’s all Inter’s merit because they seized the moment and were quick in making an exceptional signing,” insisted Milito.
“I knew Milan would be the right choice for Lautaro. An Argentinean always feels at home there. I think he would have emerged at Atletico Madrid as well, because champions can play everywhere, but the Inter-Argentina bond is something special.”
Lautaro has become a leader at the Stadio Meazza. Not only was he named Nerazzurri captain last summer, but he’s also the current Serie A leading scorer with 20 goals in 22 appearances this term. Did Milito imagine his compatriot would become such a big player?
“I was sure about it. He’s a natural leader. He has something inside,” replied the ex-striker.
“He took time to improve, year by year, and he’s never stopped. He is still young and he can still improve.”
The Nerazzurri are in talks to extend Lautaro’s contract. Will he stay at Inter long-term?
“These are personal decisions, but I know how good he feels in Milan and how Inter are the right environment for him,” Milito replied.
“He can really become a Bandiera and remain at the club for a long time but of course in football there are many variants.”
Tonight, the Nerazzurri host Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 at San Siro.
“It will be a tough game, Inter are slightly superior, they are one of the best clubs in Europe with great organization, but they’ll face a smart and prepared coach,” noted Milito.
“Diego Simeone is always able to take the best out of his players in difficult moments and he has experienced players like De Paul and Griezmann. We’ll see who will take control of midfield.”