Liverpool reportedly “had contact” with Hakan Calhanoglu’s camp, according to Calciomercato.com reporter Daniele Longo.
The AC Milan star, who registered 10 assists in Serie A this term, may be available as a free agent this summer with his contract close to expiration and no new terms in sight.
🚨 #Calhanoglu’s entourage had contact with #Liverpool but the Reds have not made a formal offer for Hakan
— Daniele Longo (@86_longo) May 27, 2021
With Gini Wijnaldum thought to have played his final game for the Reds – barring a sudden, dramatic u-turn – Jurgen Klopp’s men are in need of a new, quality midfielder to fill the gap.
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As far as his goal contributions alone go, the Turkey international would make for an interesting option in our midfield three.
To be an effective Wijnaldum replacement, however, the 27-year-old would have to be utterly reliable in possession, being able to retain the ball under pressure – not just simply advance the play.
Calhanoglu does appear to act well under pressure, though a jump from Serie A to the more quick-paced football of the Premier League has proven to be a leap too far for some Serie A stars.
If Klopp can mould the playmaker into a similar style to our No.5, without sacrificing his ability to contribute to goals, however, then it’s an option very much worth pursuing – especially for free.
For the time being though, until more reliable sources make themselves known, we’d take this link with just a pinch of salt.