Inter Milan has set their sights on a new defensive prospect as they continue their search for a left-footed center-back. The latest name to emerge on their radar is Robert Renan Alves Barbosa, commonly known as Renan.
Born in 2003, Renan is a young Brazilian defender who has caught the attention of Inter’s management. However, his current valuation is considered relatively high. As a non-EU player, Renan would occupy one of Inter’s limited slots for foreign signings, with the club having already used one such slot this season to acquire Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi on a free transfer from Porto.
Renan’s career began in the youth academy of Corinthians, where he made 13 appearances for the first team. In January 2023, he was sold to Zenit St. Petersburg for €2 million. In Russia, Renan quickly established himself, starting nine consecutive league matches.
His progress was briefly interrupted when he represented Brazil at the U20 World Cup in Argentina. Despite losing to Italy in the group stage, Brazil advanced to the round of 16 with victories over the Dominican Republic, Nigeria, and Tunisia. However, Brazil’s tournament ended in the quarter-finals with a loss to Israel, a match Renan did not play in.
Upon returning to Zenit, Renan featured in four more league games between July and August before losing his starting position. In January 2024, he was loaned to Internacional in Porto Alegre until December 31, 2024. This move has revitalized his career, with Renan already accumulating 26 appearances for the Brazilian club.
Renan’s current contract with Zenit extends until June 2028, which could complicate any potential transfer negotiations. Inter’s interest in the young defender highlights their commitment to strengthening their backline with promising talent, but they will need to carefully consider the financial and regulatory implications of pursuing this transfer.
