Atletico Madrid Join Arsenal In Race For Serbia Starlet

Inter Milan considering activating buyback clause for Aleksandar Stankovic

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Aleksandar Stankovic, a Serbian talent playing for Club Brugge, has attracted interest from several top European clubs including Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, RB Leipzig, Atalanta and now Atletico Madrid. However, his former club Inter Milan still holds a buyback option on the midfielder and is considering activating it.

Why it matters

Stankovic's breakout season has put him on the radar of many elite clubs, highlighting his potential as a rising star. Inter Milan's decision on whether to bring him back could have significant implications for the player's future and the transfer market.

The details

Inter Milan negotiated a buyback option set at €23 million when they sold Stankovic to Club Brugge last summer. They also inserted a 50% sell-on clause valid until 2027, giving them control over the player's future. Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone is particularly keen on the midfielder, who is the son of his longtime friend and former teammate Dejan Stankovic.

  • Stankovic was sold to Club Brugge last summer.

The players

Aleksandar Stankovic

A Serbian midfielder playing for Club Brugge who has attracted interest from several top European clubs.

Inter Milan

Stankovic's former club, which holds a buyback option and 50% sell-on clause on the player.

Diego Simeone

The manager of Atletico Madrid, who is particularly interested in signing Stankovic.

Dejan Stankovic

Aleksandar Stankovic's father, who was a longtime teammate of Diego Simeone.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I dream of returning to Inter. Every Nerazzurri fan can understand that. I have a special relationship with Chivu.”

— Aleksandar Stankovic (Sky Sport)

What’s next

Inter Milan must now decide whether to activate the buyback clause and secure Stankovic's future, or risk losing him to one of the other interested clubs.

The takeaway

Stankovic's breakout season has put him in high demand, but his former club Inter Milan holds the key to his future. The decision they make could have significant implications for the player's career and the transfer market.