Inter Milan President Giuseppe Marotta struck a diplomatic tone Tuesday amid rising hypothesis over Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s potential switch to Galatasaray, stating the Turkish midfielder has made no official request to depart – however hinted the door might open if he does.
Marotta’s remarks, shared with DAZN and Sport Mediaset, come only a day after Inter’s shock 2-0 loss to Fluminense within the Club World Cup spherical of 16 – and within the wake of pointed post-match feedback by captain Lautaro Martinez, extensively seen as a dig at Çalhanoğlu’s dedication.
“When a player wants to leave, the door is open,” Marotta stated. “But let’s not burden him. We’ll speak soon. If he wants out, we’ll evaluate.”
While no formal talks have been held, studies from Italy and Türkiye counsel Galatasaray are eager on luring the Mannheim-born star again dwelling. Çalhanoğlu, who missed the Club World Cup because of a calf damage, was just lately noticed in Istanbul – fueling hypothesis he’s engineering a return.
The 31-year-old has been central to Inter’s resurgence since becoming a member of from AC Milan on a free switch in 2021.
He tallied 11 targets and eight assists in 47 appearances final season, serving to the Nerazzurri win the Serie A title and attain the UEFA Champions League ultimate.
Despite this, rumors persist that Çalhanoğlu advised membership executives, “I helped you when I joined; now I want Galatasaray,” as first reported by TRT Spor.
Social media has since lit up with contrasting reactions from followers and pundits alike.
Martinez’s cryptic post-match remark – “Whoever doesn’t want to fight for Inter should leave” – was interpreted by many as a direct shot on the Turkish playmaker.
Marotta downplayed the stress, stating: “We must not blame Çalhanoğlu. We haven’t spoken yet, but we will. If paths diverge, we’ll do it respectfully.”
Inter values Çalhanoğlu between 30 million euros ($35.3 million) and 40 million euros, however Galatasaray’s funds is reportedly strained after triggering Victor Osimhen’s 75 million euros launch clause.
While Turkish media claims private phrases have been agreed, no bid has been submitted, per switch oracle himself Fabrizio Romano.
Marotta’s messaging has remained constant since mid-June: Çalhanoğlu is below contract till 2027, and until he explicitly asks to depart, he stays “100% an Inter player.”
Still, the membership is bracing for potential change. Inter is already scouting replacements, with Lazio’s Nicolo Rovella, Atalanta’s Ederson, and Parma’s Adrian Bernabe amongst these linked.
Source: www.dailysabah.com