Inter midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu has firmly established himself as a pivotal figure for the team since arriving from AC Milan and will be rewarded with a new contract.
As reported in today’s newspaper edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport, Calhanoglu has put his controversial switch from the Rossoneri on a free transfer in 2021 behind him and become a fan favourite with Inter supporters, whilst also riling up Milan fans with his performances against them in subsequent derby matches.
Of the 25 players who have crossed the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza divide in history, it is argued that few have endeared themselves to quickly to fans who had previously been rivals, whilst it is suggested that his long-running feud with ex-Milan teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic has boosted his popularity at Inter.
Ibrahimovic led Milan fans in an offensive chorus of chants against Calhanoglu during the Rossoneri’s Serie A title celebrations last year, whilst also hinted that the Turkey international had taken advantage of the cardiac arrest suffered by former Inter midfielder Christian Eriksen to take his place in the team.
Calhanoglu’s excellent performances whilst filling in for the injured Marcelo Brozovic this season have made him an integral part of coach Simone Inzaghi’s team, and he is set to extend his stay with the club.
His current contract is due to expire in 2024, but talks to extend this to 2026 on a higher wage are thought to be at an advanced stage.
