Inter Milan Signs Israeli Talent Anan Chalili for €25 Million as Denzel Dumfries Moves to Real Madrid

Inter Milan is set to acquire Israeli player Anan Chalili from Maccabi Haifa for a transfer fee of 25 million euros, marking the largest transfer involving an Israeli player to date. Chalili is expected to fill the significant role left by right-back Denzel Dumfries, who is transferring to Real Madrid. Inter, a top European club that has reached two Champions League finals in the past four seasons and won the Serie A title, employs a 3-5-2 formation with dominant right-wing backs, a system in which Chalili has excelled.

Dumfries, 30, was a key attacking contributor for Inter last season, scoring five goals and providing assists while spending most of his time in the opponent's half. Chalili’s statistics are comparable, with a similar percentage of passes in the attacking half and potentially higher involvement in key passes and dribbles. His speed, including a recorded maximum of 32.6 km/h against Inter in the Champions League, fits well with Inter’s tactical reliance on fast, advancing fullbacks.

Unlike his previous role at Belgian club Saint-Gilloise, where he was sometimes deployed as a second striker, Chalili will join Inter in a role tailored to his strengths within a system that encourages fullbacks to attack and exploit open spaces. His defensive improvements and energy management, including fewer sprints but higher efficiency, enhance his suitability for top-level European competition.

Inter has a history of developing attacking fullbacks who move on for large fees, such as Achraf Hakimi’s transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. At 21, Chalili is expected to stay beyond one season, competing for a starting spot in a club contending for multiple trophies. Compared to Napoli, which initially sought Chalili but is currently in transition, Inter offers a more stable and ambitious environment. While not a direct upgrade on Dumfries, Chalili brings youth, fitness, and speed, qualities valued highly in European football.

This transfer highlights Inter’s confidence in Chalili as a key part of their squad and marks a significant milestone for Israeli football on the international stage.