Inter gamble on Stankovic hinges on minutes before January loan

Aleksandar Stankovic has featured only twice for Inter this campaign, coming off the bench against Monza and Udinese for a combined 15 minutes, while the club spent €23 million to trigger his buy‑back clause and turned down a €40 million Brentford bid.

Limited minutes and upcoming opportunities

Stankovic’s involvement has been minimal. He entered the match against Monza and later the game versus Udinese, accumulating just 15 minutes of play. Both appearances came as late substitutes, offering him little chance to influence the outcome.

The schedule intensifies after the international break, giving the 21‑year‑old more opportunities to feature. Serbia’s Nations League programme includes clashes with the Netherlands, Greece and Germany, which could see Stankovic called upon.

Despite interest from other clubs over the summer, Stankovic opted to remain in Milan, confident he can earn a place either as a central midfielder or as cover for Hakan Calhanoglu in the deep‑lying playmaker role. His decision reflects a belief that regular minutes are attainable at Inter.

Last season’s form and financial stakes

Last season at Club Brugge, the Serbian recorded 55 appearances and scored nine goals, starting all ten of the club’s Champions League fixtures. Those figures underline the contrast with his current fringe status.

Inter exercised a €23 million buy‑back clause to secure his return, and earlier this summer turned down a €40 million offer from Brentford. The sizeable outlay heightens the pressure for the midfielder to justify his investment.

If his playing time remains limited, a loan move in January is likely, as reported by Corriere dello Sport. No agreement has been reached yet, and the club’s assessment will continue over the coming months.

Coach Cristian Chivu has indicated that Stankovic will be evaluated on his performances in training and any match minutes he receives. The midfielder’s versatility could prove valuable as the squad navigates the congested calendar ahead.