Former Juventus and AC Milan striker Alessandro Matri believes Inter Milan should not sell midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu to Bayern Munich.
Speaking on the Italian program “Kick-Off” via FCInterNews, Matri argued that letting the Turkish international leave could risk alienating Nerazzurri coach Simone Inzaghi. Calhanoglu, who just signed a contract extension last summer, is the last player Inter would have expected to sell this offseason.
By all accounts, Calhanoglu is happy at Inter. The 30-year-old former AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen player has found the best form of his career at the Nerazzurri. His transformation into a deep-lying playmaker has maximized his abilities, both offensively and defensively, and Inter has benefitted greatly from this change.
Calhanoglu was named Serie A’s best midfielder last season, reflecting his significant influence in Inter’s dominant title-winning campaign.
Matri emphasized, “Inter shouldn’t sell Hakan Calhanoglu to Bayern.” He noted that Inter has likely been planning for the next season with Calhanoglu in mind. However, unexpected offers can always change plans in football, and Bayern’s interest could be one such scenario. The Bavarians have reportedly been in talks with Calhanoglu’s agent, exploring his interest in a move.
Bayern aims to bring Calhanoglu in as a major midfield reinforcement for new coach Vincent Kompany, and an offer to Inter is likely forthcoming.
Matri stated, “I wouldn’t allow Calhanoglu to leave. If he left, I’d be looking for a new coach. Simone Inzaghi wouldn’t take it well. Inter have other players they can sell to raise cash, and for me, it’s not the right time to sell him.”
He also suggested that Inter could receive a significant offer, such as €70 million for Marcus Thuram, if they need to make a substantial profit. Meanwhile, Matri predicted that midfielder Davide Frattesi could see more playing time next season.
