Marcus Thuram sends 'ciao downgrade' signed shirt to journalist who claimed he'd be a downgrade on Edin Dzeko, pictures emerge

Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram has had the last laugh, sending a signed shirt to a journalist who wrote him off after his summer transfer. The Frenchman was pivotal as the Nerazzurri stormed to the Serie A title, winning the league by an impressive 19 points.

France international Thuram was one of the most in-demand free agents in the summer of 2023 after he decided to leave Borussia Monchengladbach. A son of Juventus legend Lilian, Marcus decided to move to Italy with Inter Milan, and his decision was met with skepticism from some quarters.

Journalist Sandro Sabatini boldly predicted that Marcus Thuram would be a downgrade on Edin Dzeko, who left Milan for Fenerbahce at the end of the 2022-23 season. After helping the side win the Scudetto, the Frenchman was generous enough to send a signed shirt that read 'Ciao Downgrade' to the journalist.

Marcus Thuram scored 15 goals and provided 14 assists for the Nerazzurri in 46 games across all competitions. He struck up an impressive partnership with Lautaro Martinez, who recorded 27 goals and seven assists in 44 games.

The 26-year-old bettered Dzeko's tally from last season. The Bosnian scored 14 goals and provided five assists in 52 games across all competitions for Inter as they finished third in Serie A.

Inter Milan won a 20th Serie A title in style this season, picking up 94 points and racking up 29 wins. Thuram was one of their best performers. His performance for the club has earned him admiration from all over Europe, with Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United reportedly keen on signing him.

---

Arsenal keeping tabs on Inter Milan star Marcus Thuram - Reports

Arsenal have reportedly added the name of France international Marcus Thuram to their wishlist as they prepare to splash the cash on a new striker. The Gunners are keen to sign a prolific forward to boost their title chances next season after falling just short of winning the league in 2023-24.

Calciomercato reports that Thuram, who is on the France squad for Euro 2024, is the latest addition to the Arsenal list. The Frenchman has spent just one season at the San Siro but has impressed sufficiently to earn suitors this summer.

Inter Milan have financial issues despite only just winning the Scudetto, and they may be forced to sell one or more of their stars. They have been known to not have problems with selling players after just one season, as they did with Andre Onana following interest from Manchester United. Because of this, Thuram's links to Arsenal are one to be watched closely.