Brentford are looking to match Inter Milan’s offer for Moncef Zekri as the battle for the 17-year-old starts to heat up.
Journalist Sacha Tavolieri reports that Inter Milan have stepped up their interest in the KV Mechelen left-back, which is likely to prompt Brentford into action.
According to his information, Inter Milan have stepped up their pursuit of Zekri. Talks are now underway with the player’s representatives.
The Italian side have offered €4.2m for the youngster, payable in instalments, with an additional 10% sell-on clause for KV Mechelen. As part of the deal, Zekri could remain on loan at KVM for one more season.
Brentford look to match
That offer has prompted Brentford to make their move for Moncef Zekri. According to Tavolieri, the Bees are looking to match the offer from Inter Milan.
Their interest in the 17-year-old goes back to last month. Tavolieri reported at the time that Brentford and Brighton had both sent scouts to a clash with Anderlecht to watch the left-back.
The plan after that was to present their offers and projects to the Moroccan. The journalist reported at the time that playing time as the crucial factor for Zekri.
Inter Milan effort needs to be match
Now Inter Milan have stepped in with a firm bid, setting the stage for a potential bidding war to begin.
Their offer of €4.2m is on the money, perfectly matching Transfermarkt’s current valuation. They currently have him valued at €4m but that’s steadily increasing. His valuation was only €500,000 in June last year.
Whether Brentford are willing to match the bid, remains to be seen. That figure is hardly one they would struggle to match if they decide to do so.
If playing time is important for Moncef Zekri as well, then they can easily offer that in abundance. Indeed, they will point to various players in the current squad who have benefitted from the pathway they have and their willingness to back players in the Premier League.
First, though, they’ll have to match Inter Milan. The Italian side are pushing for the 17-year-old and, at this point, appear to be leading the race for Zekri’s signature.