AC Monza have stepped up their efforts to sign Nigerian midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro from Inter Milan as the two Serie A clubs continue talks over a permanent transfer, Soccernet.ng reports.
According to reports from Sky Sport Italia through transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, negotiations are progressing positively. Although, it is believed that Inter are determined to protect their long-term investment in the 21-year-old by inserting a mandatory buy-back clause into any agreement.
The clause would allow the Nerazzurri to bring Akinsanmiro back to San Siro in the future if he continues his rapid development.
The latest talks come just weeks after Akinsanmiro's expected permanent move to Pisa unexpectedly collapsed. The midfielder spent the entire 2025-26 Serie A season on loan at Pisa, where he made 24 league appearances and impressed despite their relegation.
Pisa had activated their €7.5 million option to buy the Nigerian permanently, but the transfer fell apart at the final stage because of a technical problem during the exchange of documents.
Instead of seeing it as a setback, Inter have now turned the situation into a fresh opportunity. The Italian giants reportedly value Akinsanmiro at around €10 million and believe his impressive performances last season have increased his market value.
Monza are not the only club monitoring the Super Eagles midfielder. Bundesliga sides and fellow Serie A outfit Bologna have also shown interest.
Monza's Serie A return could offer Akinsanmiro fresh opportunity
Monza believe Akinsanmiro could strengthen their midfield as they prepare for life back in Serie A following an outstanding promotion campaign.
The club finished third in the Serie B last term with 76 points after recording 22 wins, 10 draws and only six defeats in 38 matches. They also built their success on a strong defence, conceding just 32 goals before sealing promotion alongside Venezia and Frosinone.
Akinsanmiro's profile fits the type of player Monza want to build around. The right-footed central midfielder is known for his energy, composure on the ball and ability to drive his team from midfield into attack.
He joined Inter Milan from Nigerian club Remo Stars in January 2023 and has continued to develop steadily within the Italian football system. Earlier this year, he extended his contract with Inter until June 2029, showing that the club still sees him as an important part of its future plans.
Although Pisa were relegated from Serie A, Akinsanmiro's individual performances attracted praise throughout the season. He featured for 1,445 league minutes, provided one assist and consistently impressed with his work rate, tactical discipline and maturity in midfield.
Those displays convinced Pisa to pursue a permanent transfer before the paperwork issue derailed the deal. Now Monza hope to take advantage of the situation and bring the Nigerian to their newly promoted squad, while Inter aim to secure a deal that rewards the club financially without losing control of a bright young talent.
