Bayer Leverkusen Midfielder Tops Inter Milan’s Wishlist As Calhanoglu Replacement | OneFootball

Inter Milan are preparing for life without midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu and have identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka as his replacement.

As reported in today’s newspaper edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport, and via FCInterNews.it, the Nerazzurri are unhappy with the doubts surrounding Calhanoglu’s future but it has not caught them off guard, with a shortlist of replacements already drawn up.

Former Arsenal captain Xhaka is top of the list, with Inter coach Christian Chivu admiring the Switzerland international’s experience and seeing him as able to partner Nicolo Barella effectively.

The 32-year-old saw a move to Saudi Arabia fall through and progress has not been made on a move to Premier League newcomers Sunderland, so Inter are poised to strike.

Indeed, Xhaka is open to a switch to the Nerazzurri but wants his future resolved quickly, as he is minded to remain in the Bundesliga if nothing materialises soon.

Elsewhere, Inter are less optimistic about signing Ederson from Atalanta due to the likely sale of Ademola Lookman, whilst a deal for Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha is unlikely.

However, the Biscione may consider bringing Mateo Kovacic back to the club from Manchester City, particularly as they continue to enjoy a positive relationship with him.

The Croatia international was consulted when Inter signed Petar Sucic, but a deal is complicated by an injury sustained this summer that will rule him out of the start of the season.

Sucic himself may find his path to the first team expedited, with the 21-year-old arrival from Dinamo Zagreb considered ready to fill Calhanoglu’s boots.