Italian outlet Il Romanista claim that Leeds United and Tottenham ‘stand out’ as the most-likely destinations for Inter Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu this summer – with the midfielder likely to leave the Nerazzurri in the coming months.
Calhanoglu, 29, looks as if he is already coming to the end of his Inter spell. Inter are hardly awash with cash. They need to make some room on the wage bill and selling a player they got on a free transfer would represent a profit.
Last season, Calhanoglu starred for Inter after swapping AC Milan for their bitter rivals. A move that ultimately back-fired for the 74-time Turkey star. He joined Inter in 2021 who had just won Serie A, leaving Milan who won it in 2022.
In his first season at Inter, he had a hand in 21 goals in 46 games. This term, nine goals and assists in his 36 outings. With the ex-Hamburg star’s deal ending in 2024, this summer represents the last chance for Inter to bring in a fee.
The report states that there is plenty of interest in £154k-a-week Calhanoglu. As things stand, of the clubs keen, Leeds and Tottenham are said to ‘stand out’. Whether or not he would be tempted by Leeds is a different question.
Leeds and Tottenham stand out for Inter star Hakan Calhanoglu
What is for sure, is that Leeds stand no chance of attracting the Turkish ace if the club are relegated. Should we stay up, you would expect that it is unlikely Leeds move for the German-born star – given he will want big wages.
Not only that, but Calhanoglu is a player that has tasted regular Champions League football and will feel he is now in the prime of his career. He will not want to join a side that are not offering European action – Europa League at least.
Finally, Leeds do not tend to go for a player that is in their late twenties. Calhanoglu is the kind of calibre and quality that may see Leeds allow room for the odd exception. But, it does not feel like the right fit. Spurs, much likelier.
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