​Inter are still on the hunt for a long-term successor to Denzel Dumfries as questions linger over Anan Khalaili’s arrival. Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the Nerazzurri have identified Guela Doue, a rising star at Strasbourg, as a fallback option should the Khalaili deal stall. Although Inter had secured an agreement with Royale Union Saint-Gilloise for Khalaili, the transfer to Giuseppe Meazza appears increasingly at risk due to the Belgian club’s demands and the player’s ongoing physical concerns that could derail the move.
With Dumfries having moved to Real Madrid, Inter are keen to seal a replacement who can grow into the role and deliver immediate impact. Marco Palestra had long been Beppe Marotta’s preferred pick, but the former Atalanta prodigy declined the Nerazzurri in favor of a high-profile switch to Chelsea, leaving Inter to pivot their strategy. In the wake of Palestra’s rejection and the Khalaili situation nearing uncertainty, Inter have reportedly turned their attention to Doue.
Doue, a former Milan-linked talent, has carved out a significant rise at Strasbourg and is now viewed as one of Ligue 1’s most rapidly ascending players. The 23-year-old winger has made headlines with his pace, technical quality, and direct approach, drawing comparisons to players who can operate effectively on either flank. While his brother Desire Doue plays for France, Guela Doue chose Ivory Coast and earned a place in the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he delivered a series of eye-catching performances on football’s biggest stage. His performance at Strasbourg has impressed scouts and executives across Europe, reinforcing the perception that he could be a valuable long-term asset for a top club.
However, Doué’s potential pursuit would require a substantial outlay from Inter. His current market value sits higher than Khalaili’s €25 million valuation, meaning the club would need to mobilize significant funds to secure him. On the upside, Strasbourg are reportedly amenable to selling their prized assets this summer after they missed out on European competition, which could create a window of opportunity for Inter to land a player who could redefine their long-term wing options and overall tactical flexibility.
Beyond Doue, Inter are not limiting themselves to a single target. The club continue to monitor alternatives who could upgrade the right wing ahead of the 2026-27 season. Among the names in the mix are Fiorentina stalwart Dodo and Genoa youngster Brooke Norton-Cuffy, both viewed as potential fits to boost Inter’s depth and competitiveness on the flanks. Dodo’s experience in Italian football and Norton-Cuffy’s pace and versatility make them appealing options for a team looking to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term planning.
In summary, Inter’s strategy remains focused on replacing Dumfries with a player who can grow into a dependable long-term asset. With Khalaili’s transfer in jeopardy and Palestra’s withdrawal from consideration, Guela Doue has emerged as a practical and ambitious fallback. The 23-year-old Ivory Coast international could deliver the pace, acceleration, and directness that Inter crave on the wings, provided the club is prepared to meet Strasbourg’s valuation. Alongside Doue, Inter will keep exploring other viable targets such as Dodo and Norton-Cuffy to ensure they secure the best possible option for their next era on the right side of the attack. This approach aligns with Inter’s broader objective of strengthening the squad’s depth and maintaining consistency at the highest level of competition in Serie A and Europe.