La Gazzetta dello Sport has pinpointed Leicester City as the party responsible for the breakdown of Stefano Sensi’s anticipated move to the club, accusing the English Championship team of repeatedly altering the terms of the deal.
Sensi had arrived in England on deadline day, Thursday, with expectations of sealing a permanent move to Leicester City, where he would have teamed up with fellow Italian Enzo Maresca.
Despite not participating in training sessions with his Inter Milan squad in anticipation of the move, Sensi’s transfer to the King Power Stadium ultimately fell through.
The Italian newspaper alleges that Leicester City is to blame, accusing the club of attempting to modify the agreement’s conditions several times throughout the January transfer window, particularly on the final day.
Reports suggest that Leicester City’s initial proposal included a €500,000 payment plus an additional €2m in bonuses contingent on their promotion to the Premier League. Although Inter accepted this offer, Leicester failed to submit the signed documents required to finalize the deal.
On deadline day, Inter was prepared to allow Sensi to leave for free, with the arrangement including €2.5m in add-ons based on Leicester City’s promotion to the Premier League.
Journalist Andrea Ramoazzotti noted that Inter’s directors Marotta, Ausilio, and Baccin agreed to these terms to assist Leicester City amidst the club’s stringent financial scrutiny.
The report highlights that Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns and work permit issues played a role in the collapse of Sensi’s transfer. However, a lack of consensus within Leicester City regarding the acquisition, despite coach Maresca’s interest in bringing his compatriot to the team, was a significant factor.
Following the failed transfer, Sensi has returned to Inter Milan, where he is set to remain until his contract expires in June.