Arsenal and Aston Villa are vying for Hakan Calhanoglu, with Inter Milan reportedly looking for at least €30 million for the 28-year-old.
According to Inter Live, Hakan Calhanoglu is a target for Premier League clubs Arsenal and Aston Villa for next year. The €30 million-rated Turkish playmaker is a wanted man following impressive performances for Inter Milan, although a January exit may seem like it could be more viable.
Premier League clubs are increasingly keeping tabs on talents from other leagues, especially with the January transfer window fast approaching. The winter market usually brings surprises as no clubs are willing to part ways with talents in the middle of the season.
Yet, the financial aspects of the deal done during this window hold the key for clubs and players to switch sides. Serie A giants Inter Milan have been in a financial mess for the last few years, and a lucrative transfer or two for some of their existing players can materialise.
One player they are not keen to part ways with is Hakan Calhanoglu. The Turkish international has proven his worth in the 18 months he has played at the club and continues to put in worthy displays in an Inter shirt. But if push comes to shove, Inter will demand around €30 million for him.
While his contributions will let the club keep him on board and even take up the option of extending his current deal by another season, interest from the Premier League cannot go unnoticed. Aston Villa and Arsenal are reportedly vying for the Turkish playmaker as they eye a January move.
Now, Inter may want to avoid disruption in the middle of the season, but they might remain open on a sale next summer. The €30 million price quoted in the report fall within the range of Premier League clubs, including Arsenal. The Gunners have invested heavily in Martin Odegaard and Fabio Vieira in the last two summer windows; hence, they might have yet to come into the fore for Calhanoglu.
However, Mikel Arteta is in the market to shore up his midfield, and Calhanoglu has shown he can play a deeper role. Whether the Arsenal manager would like to invest significant sums in a 28-year-old remains the question,
Newcastle United were reportedly interested in Calhanoglu, but he may fall outside their category for January. However, Aston Villa are ready to spend on a new playmaker and remain in the market for a proven star. Calhanoglu could prove the bet as Unai Emery strengthens his options.
For now, Inter may not consider a sale of the playmaker, especially in January. However, the summer window can change the Serie A giants’ stance if a viable offer comes through. Moreover, his salary demands could be within range of Premier League sides,