Manchester United keeping tabs on AC Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu
According to Italian publication TuttoMercatoWeb (h/t Daily Star), Manchester United are interested in AC Milan ace Hakan Calhanoglu.
The 26-year-old is seen as a cover for Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese has proven to be a sensation since his move to United in January.
Not only has he scored and assisted with ease but has also raised the performances of those around him. However, he cannot be expected to play a whole season without any breaks.
Fernandes has missed just one game since moving to Old Trafford. With the new season fast approaching, the chances of him earning a well-deserved rest are low.
Adding strength in depth will enable Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to rotate Fernandes well. With Champions League football also back on the agenda, the Norwegian will have to make full use of the squad.
Calhanoglu is a player who can seamlessly slot in as an attacking midfielder. His contract at AC Milan expires next season and talks regarding an extension have broken down.
This can force Milan’s hand to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him for free in a year’s time.
Calhanoglu has also attracted attention from Bundesliga pair RB Leipzig and Hertha Berlin. The midfielder admitted his love for Milan but also added that he needs to do what is best for his career.
A jack of all trades
The 26-year-old is an extremely versatile player capable of playing in a plethora of positions in the midfield and attack. This will also give Solskjaer the chance to deploy him in a variety of positions when the need arises.
Moreover, Calhanoglu is an excellent set-piece taker known for his audacious attempts with the dead-ball. His ability to strike a knuckleball is reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo and Juninho Pernambucano.
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United at this moment possess a strong first XI that can compete against the best in the business. We, however, lack the luxury to bring game-changing players off the bench.
Calhanglu’s set of skills makes him an ideal target for us, especially given his contract situation. United should not miss out on signing the Turk on the cheap.