Inter Milan's Hakan Calhanoglu celebrates after the match
Newcastle United reportedly now have an offer ready to potentially sign Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu in the January transfer window.
The Lowdown: Maddison alternative?
There have been reports that the St. James’ Park outfit will try and go back in for James Maddison in January, having had a bid rejected by Leicester City for the attacking midfielder in the summer.
However, with the Foxes’ form picking up after two wins and a draw from their last four Premier League games, it may be harder to persuade him to join come in January.
The Latest: Calhanoglu the ‘dream’
As per CalcioMercatoWeb, the North East club now ‘dream’ of signing Calhanoglu in January, but will face competition from Manchester United for his signature.
An offer is already ready on the table from the Tynesiders of up to €40m (£35m), and Inter may be forced to sell given their financial situation.
The Verdict: Get it done
If Maddison suddenly becomes unavailable, Calhanoglu would be a great alternative.
Hailed as an ‘exceptional‘ player by AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli, the Turkey international is now excelling at their city rivals, with ten goals and 16 assists over the past two seasons, including five goal contributions in 13 games this term (Transfermarkt).
Calhanoglu ranks in the 99th percentile for assists, expected assists and shot-creating actions for midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues, and is similar in playing style to Manchester City and Premier League superstar Kevin De Bruyne (FBRef), so the 28-year-old would be a worthy addition to the Magpies.
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