Inter Closing In on New Contract with Red-Hot Defender

Inter Closing In on New Contract with Red-Hot DefenderCarlos Augusto has had an excellent start this season, putting pressure on the Inter management to ramp up their efforts to extend his contract, which was already on the docket. The Nerazzurri aim to finalize it before the end of the calendar year, Fabrizio Romano reports (via SOSFanta).The strong performances of the versatile defender forced the club to improve its previous offer. The parties are close to reaching an agreement on a €3.5/4M salary, bonus included. The reigning Serie A champions lean heavily on performance- and objective-based add-ons in their negotiations.Carlos Augusto is in the midst of his best stretch since joining Inter, having recorded four goals and two assists already, deciding a couple of recent matches off the bench. He’s starting to seriously push Federico Dimarco for minutes and also serves as Alessandro Bastoni’s deputy. He’s currently tied to the team until 2028.The former Monza star has starred four times with Brazil but has so far been snubbed by Carlo Ancelotti. The choices in his role have been questionable. He could return to the squad as soon as the next international break.Our Take on Inter and Carlos AugustoHe’s been en fuego lately, but he’s really been superb since his days with the Brianzoli, though he was just missing the consistent playing time to make a difference in his previous seasons at San Siro. They are lucky he didn’t ask out last summer, as he would be a full-time starter in most clubs. Dragging their feet in the talks will cost them money, as he has all the leverage now. Having two studs in such a demanding role is a luxury their management shouldn’t underestimate.