Reports out of Argentina say Estudiantes de La Plata have reached an agreement with Inter Milan to bring in defender Tomás Palacios on loan. The 22-year-old centre-back will join until December 2026, with an option for Estudiantes to buy him at the end, though it’s not required. Medical tests come next, and clubs are swapping final papers, according to journalist Cesar Luis Merlo.
Palacios has spent the last year and a half at Inter after moving from Talleres de Córdoba in 2024. The Italian club paid around €6.5 million for the young Argentine, signing him to a deal that runs until 2029.
He stands tall at 1.96 metres, is left-footed, and caught eyes with strong showings in Argentina’s youth teams. Inter brought him in as a prospect for the future, making him one of many Argentines to wear the Nerazzurri shirt over the years.
Minutes proved hard to come by in Milan. Inter’s back line remains one of the strongest in Serie A, with veterans holding spots. Palacios got some bench time but few real chances on the pitch. A loan makes sense for everyone. He gets regular games back home, and Inter keeps his development on track without blocking squad space.
Estudiantes sits in a good spot in the Argentine Primera División. The club from La Plata often pushes for titles and spots in continental cups. Coaches there like building with solid defenders.
Adding Palacios gives them depth in the middle, especially if injuries or sales hit. The non-mandatory buy clause lets them check how he fits before any big commitment.
This fits a common path for young South Americans in Europe. Many head over early, then return on loan to build experience when first-team breaks don’t come quick. Palacios played steadily at Talleres before the Inter switch, showing he handles senior football. No official word yet from either club, which is normal at this stage. Paperwork and medicals usually wrap things up quietly.
Inter keeps busy in the market even mid-season. They manage a deep squad while eyeing trophies in Italy and Europe. Loaning out prospects frees spots and wages if needed. Estudiantes gains a player with European training, something clubs back home value.
Palacios turned 22 last April, having been born in General Pico. He came through Independiente’s youth setup before Talleres. Argentina’s under-20 side called him up, adding to his resume. Staying fit matters most now. If the medical goes smoothly, he could link up with his new teammates soon.
Argentine football stays active on transfers outside European windows. Clubs there move players year-round to adjust squads. Estudiantes has a history with loans from big European sides, turning some into permanent stays.
Supporters in La Plata look forward to seeing him in pinstripes. Inter fans hope the move sharpens him for a stronger return. For Palacios, it’s about playing time and proving he belongs at high levels. The loan sets that stage back to where his career took off.
Details like exact option fees stay private for now. That’s standard. Once documents are signed and he passes tests, announcements should follow. Argentine media will track his first sessions closely.
This kind of switch happens often but still draws interest. A young defender crossing from Serie A to Primera gives both leagues a link. Palacios picks a club with tradition and ambition. Estudiantes gets fresh legs in defence. Inter invests in his growth without rush.
The coming days bring clarity. Medical booked, papers moving. If all checks out, Palacios starts a new chapter soon. Fans on both sides wait for the official nod. For now, reports point to a done deal ready to cross the line.
