Newcastle United join Leeds United in race for £25m rated Serie A star

Newcastle United are reportedly ready to rekindle their interest in Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu at the end of the season.

The 29-year-old made a controversial switch across Milan during the summer of 2021 after making a free transfer move from AC Milan to deadly rivals Inter. He made an immediate impact with the Nerazzurri after scoring and providing an assist in a 4-0 home win against Genoa on his debut and he ended the campaign with eight goals and 13 assists in 46 appearances in all competitions. Calhanoglu also played a lead role in securing silverware as the midfielder scored in a 4-2 win over Juventus in a thrilling Coppa Italia Final.

He has continued to impress this season with nine goal involvements across 32 appearances but there has been speculation over his future after he was linked with a move to the Premier League during the January transfer window.

However, he remained at the San Siro amid talk Inter were willing to extend his current deal that will enter its final year at the end of the season. Calhanoglu spoke of his delight over a potential extension to his time with Inter and revealed his pleasure at the reaction he has received from key individuals at the club.

Speaking recently, he said: “I’m proud that Inter want to extend my contract, and my intention is to stay here. But I want to stay in Milan even after that, continuing to work in football.

“Maybe I’ll even open a 100% Turkish restaurant, something a bit lacking in this city. From the first day that I arrived, I understood that there was a special atmosphere here, it’s different. I have to thank my teammates, the coaching staff, and everyone who works here. I felt welcome right away.

“The positivity from the fans gave me energy, motivation, and self-confidence, I feel free here, I know they support me even when I make a mistake.”

As it stands, an extension is yet to be agreed and Inter Live have now suggested Newcastle and Leeds United are ready to submit a bid of around £25m to tempt Inter into parting company with the Turkish international at the end of the season.