Report: Liverpool open talks to sign AC Milan playmaker Hakan Calhanoglu, available on a free transfer

By Will Butcher

Italian website CalcioMercato claim Liverpool are in talks with the agents of AC Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu. The Turkey international is available on a free transfer , with his Milan contract expiring at the end of June.

Calhanoglu, 27, has been in excellent form for Milan this season. Under Stefano Pioli, the Turkish playmaker has reignited his earlier form and had a hand in 21 goals during 2020-21. Scoring nine times, the ex-Leverkusen star has also clocked up 12 assists.

The stats continue to shine bright on Calhanoglu. Clocking up 172 games since joining in 2017, he has been involved in 80 goals in that time. With Gini Wijnaldum about to leave, Liverpool want to bring in Calhanoglu as his replacement.

The report states that Juventus also want him, while Liverpool have spoken to Calhanoglu’s agents. Though a formal offer is yet to be made, the German-born number 10 will Milan and Liverpool are keen. Time will tell if they can tempt him with a move to England.

Calhanoglu ideal Liverpool replacement for Wijnaldum

Wijnaldum is expected to join Bayern on a free and he needs replacing. The Dutchman has been brilliant for Liverpool, continually offering a huge impact from the engine room. Calhanoglu is a slightly different player. The Turkish ace will be much more effective going forward.

However, would Calhanoglu produce the work rate that Wijnaldum is capable of? Probably not. But his attacking prowess – and that he is available on a free – outweighs his slightly-reduced work rate. A must-sign.