It has been reported that Newcastle United are planning to launch a bid to sign Hakan Calhanoglu in the summer transfer window.
This claim has been made by Italian publication Calcio Mercato, as it seems like Eddie Howe’s side plan to bolster their midfield in the summer.
While Newcastle United have been linked with a number of central midfielders ahead of next season, it seems like Hakan Calhanoglu has caught their eye.
Newcastle readying Hakan Calhanoglu bid
The Turkish international has been the heart and soul of an Inter Milan side that are on the brink of making history once again, as they find themselves in a Champions League final against Manchester City.
Calhanoglu, who has operated in a much deeper role than usual could perhaps allow Guimaraes to play further forward, which could be the Magpies’ intention behind trying to sign him.
As for now, it has been claimed that while Newcastle are certainly interested in signing Hakan Calhanoglu, the deal will only be possible if they qualify for the Champions League.
If Eddie Howe’s side manage to do so, a move for the Inter Milan midfielder is likely to cost as much as £35 million.
However, it has been clarified that Juventus will become the frontrunners in the race to sign the ex-AC Milan attacker, if the Premier League outfit finish outside the top four.
Signing Calhanoglu does not make much sense for the Magpies
If Newcastle do intend to sign Hakan Calhanoglu in a deeper role, the fit may not work in the English top-flight, where deep-lying playmakers that are not the best defensive presences usually get torn apart.
Whilst pushing the former Bayer Leverkusen man further forward would not particularly add much, as his best traits are now found much deeper.
In addition, the Magpies could aim higher if they qualify for the Champions League.
All factors considered, a move for the 29-year-old should be avoided by Howe and Co.
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