MILAN - Hakan Calhanoglu and Inter could continue together beyond 2027. What seemed like a long shot just a few months ago is now back in the spotlight following the Turkish midfielder's excellent start to the season, with Cristian Chivu considering him a key player in the Nerazzurri's project.
Calhanoglu has already made his mark with the goal against Monza, which came with a shot that reached the 135 kilometers per hour, uncatchable for Pizzignacco.
A departure that also reopens the discussion regarding the future of the director, currently linked to Inter until June 30, 2027.
Chivu still focuses on Calhanoglu
There was no shortage of inquiries from Turkey. First Galatasaray and then Fenerbahce attempted to bring Calhanoglu back to his homeland, but the midfielder chose to stay in Milan.
A decision shared by Chivu, who considers the Turk fundamental to Inter's development.
There is no shortage of alternatives. Piotr Zielinski he has shown that he can be used in front of the defense, while Stankovic He represents one of the profiles on which to build the future of the midfield. Calhanoglu, however, continues to provide distinct characteristics and a now in-depth understanding of the Nerazzurri's mechanisms.
Renewal possible, next few months will be decisive
Second The Gazzetta dello Sport, thus, glimpses of a possible contract extension beyond 2027.
However, the decision isn't imminent. Much will depend on the player's performance and, above all, his physical consistency throughout the season.
Last season, Calhanoglu was instrumental in some of the most important matches, scoring against Roma in the game that sealed the Scudetto and scoring a brace against Como that allowed Inter to reach the Coppa Italia final.
The main problem was injuries: six stops in total, with problems affecting the wrist, muscles, adductor and calf.
He will turn 33 in February
Age will also inevitably factor into the club's assessments. Calhanoglu will turn 33 years old in February and Inter will therefore have to evaluate the duration and economic conditions of a possible new agreement.
Furthermore, the Nerazzurri tend to avoid bringing in their key players close to their contract expiration dates. For this reason, the issue could be addressed concretely in the coming months.
Calhanoglu has arrived at Inter on a free transfer from Milan in 2021, initially with a salary of around 5 million euros per season. With the renewal signed in 2023, and valid until 2027, the salary rose to approximately 6.5 million per year.
The game for the future is therefore open. If performance and physical condition continue to provide positive results, Inter and Calhanoglu could sit down again to extend a relationship that began five years ago.
