Inter Milan have reportedly identified Giovanni Fabbian as the eventual heir of experienced midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
The 21-year-old is a Nerazzurri youth product who joined Bologna on a permanent basis last summer.
The Rossoblu only splashed 5 million euros for the Italy U21 international who earned plaudits for his impressive displays in Serie B while on loan at Reggina last season.
This turned out to be a brilliant coup from the Emilians, with Fabbian now cementing himself as one of the best revelations in Serie A this term.
The youngster has now established himself as a regular starter in Thiago Motta’s high-flying team. He has already contributed with four goals and two assists in the 18 league appearances.
But luckily for Inter, they still hold the option to bring him back to Appiano Gentile.
According to Tuttosport via FcInterNews, the Nerazzurri will most likely trigger their buy-back clause in the summer of 2025. They would have to pay Bologna 12 million euros.
As the Turin-based newspaper explains, the management considers Fabbian as a potential long-term replacement for Mkhitaryan.
Giovanni Fabbian Could Become The Heir Of Henrikh Mkhitaryan At Inter Milan
The young man would link up with Nicolo Barella and Davide Frattesi, forming an Italian block in the middle of the park.
By 2025, the Armenian would be 36 with one year left on his contract.
Therefore, the young Italian could immediately join the Inter squad or spend his campaign on loan before returning in 2026.
Obviously, this will largely depend on Fabbian’s displays and whether the Nerazzurri deem him ready for a major role.
Moreover, Mkhitaryan’s levels will also play a major role in dictating the situation.
Fabbian will have the chance to impress against his former employers this Saturday when the two sides collide at the Renato Dall’Ara.