In a recent interview with Sempremilan, renowned Bild journalist Christian Falk has revealed that Manchester United are inching closer towards sealing a move for AC Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu when he is set to become a free agent at the end of this campaign. Falk said, “According to our information, the first talks between Manchester and the entourage of Calhanoglu about a transfer in 2021 already took place this summer.
“At that time, things were already very advanced. This is supported by the fact that the management rejected an offer from Juventus for an immediate transfer in 2020 shortly before the end of the transfer deadline.
“At the moment it’s about the exact salary for the transfer. Calhanoglu has the big advantage that he is a free agent.”
Calhanoglu’s Impressive Form At The San Siro This Season
The Turkish playmaker’s current contract at the San Siro is set to expire next summer which could open the door for the Red Devils to acquire his services. The 26-year-old has registered four goals and four assists in 13 matches for the Italian outfit this term across multiple competitions.
The Mannheim-born talent has played an influential role in Stefano Pioli’s first XI this season as he is averaging 2.0 shots, 3.6 key passes, 2.6 crosses and 0.5 dribbles per game in the Serie A. He has also distributed possession relatively accurately in the opposition half as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 85.6% in the Italian top tier (stats via whoscored).
What Will The Turkish International Bring To Old Trafford?
Calhanoglu is an excellent dribbler in the opposition half as he has outstanding close control and is usually quite composed when in possession of the ball. He is proficient at generating space for himself to get a few shots in on-target and scores his fair share of goals in the final third.
The 52-time Turkish international is even a specialist from dead-ball situations and can deliver some inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty area. He has established himself as one of the most productive attacking midfielders in the Serie A, so he could prove to be a major coup for Man United if they can lure him to Old Trafford at the end of this season.
Is Calhanoglu The Right Fit For The Red Devils?
There is no doubt that Calhanoglu will add more goals and creativity to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s attack. However, at the moment, the Red Devils have got Bruno Fernandes, who has been a real revelation in the number ten position, while Donny van de Beek provides cover for him on the bench. Paul Pogba, Juan Mata and Daniel James can also fill in as an attacking midfielder if needed.
Therefore, unless Solskjaer decides to cash in on one of them next summer, it’s difficult to see why he would sanction the signing of Calhanoglu, who would struggle to get into his first-team. All in all, the Turkish playmaker would be a quality addition but won’t be a good fit for Man United as they have got enough strength in depth in their attacking department.
