According to the Chronicle’s Lee Ryder, Newcastle have scouted AC Milan playmaker Hakan Çalhanoğlu ‘extensively’ this season.
We were linked with the 26-year-old via several Italian outlets over the January transfer window, with one report claiming we had scouts watching both him and Krzysztof Piatek in their 0-0 draw with Sampdoria earlier in the season.
Here’s what he had to say when asked for a transfer update in the Chronicle’s latest Q&A, suggesting we hold serious interest in the Turkish international:
‘I think the scouting staff have been told to look for a winger and a striker.
‘Steve Bruce also wanted extra energy in midfield.
‘They have looked at a range of players in Serie A, Bundesliga and France. I know that Newcastle have looked at Hakan Calhanoglu at AC Milan extensively this season.’
It’s difficult to say when the season will even resume never mind the transfer window, but it sounds like Çalhanoğlu is someone the club’s scouts are watching closely.
He’s bagged 5 goals for Milan this term and has weighed in with 12 goals and 23 assists across his two other seasons at the San Siroa.
The former Bayern Leverkusen star – who can play out wide or in the no.10 role – completed a £18m move to Italy in July 2017, having impressed in the Bundesliga with 28 goals and 29 assists in 115 appearances.
Here’s him in action:
Looks like Phil Jones move is on his as the clubs agree a fee and no where near the £12m being spouted.
Phil himself has pushing this deal through as wants to work with Brucie and Stay in the north.
Sheffied Utd are also keen, but he wants to move to NUFC.
Source – My mate down the pub 🙂
BillyTheFish(Quote)