Leeds United are reportedly a ‘stand out’ option for Inter Milan playmaker Hakan Calhanoglu this summer with the Turkish ace expected to leave the Nerazzurri – and he would be the ideal mentor for Brenden Aaronson, if he joined.
Calhanoglu, 29, is in the final 18 months of his contract at Inter Milan, having signed a three-year deal when joining the club in the summer of 2021. He made the bold move from AC Milan to their bitter rivals, in a move that backfired.
Indeed, he joined Inter in the summer after Antonio Conte had guided them to the Serie A title. But he left the club that then went on to win Serie A themselves. Calhanoglu’s Inter currently sit in second, but miles behind Napoli.
With Inter needing some cash, and a way of getting their big earners off the wage bill, Calhanoglu is likely to be sold. Italian site Il Romanista report that Leeds and Tottenham are ‘stand out’ options, for the £27m-rated player.
Leeds a stand out option for Calhanoglu, the ideal mentor for Aaronson
Meanwhile at Leeds, Aaronson has seen his early form subside somewhat. Things got off to a wonderful start in the first few games, following his £25m move from Salzburg. Arguably, scoring against Wolves in a 2-1 win at home.
Then, netting against Chelsea in a 3-0 win. But following that, his form dwindled. Many fans have become frustrated with the USA star for a perceived lack of strength. He has been key since Javi Gracia has come in at Elland Road.
Still only 22, Aaronson is the only recognisable no.10 in the Leeds squad. Having had a hand in just three goals in his 30 appearances, he needs an older head in his position that can help improve him. To mentor him, to drag him up.
Calhanoglu is the ideal man to do just that. While the Inter star does boast more strength, his lack of pace means he relies on his footballing intelligence – like Aaronson has to – to shine. He would be the ideal tutor for Aaronson.
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