Bayern Munich considering surprise move for Inter Milan star

Hakan Çalhanoğlu has emerged as a shock potential option for Bayern Munich, with the Inter Milan midfielder viewed as a potential alternative to João Palhinha.

With negotiations over the signature of João Palhinha from Fulham dragging on, Bayern Munich are considering potential alternatives to bolster the defensive midfield position. According to BILD, Hakan Çalhanoğlu is one name the Bayern bosses have discussed in recent weeks. Although it remains to be seen just how serious their interest is in bringing the Turkish international back to the Bundesliga.

Çalhanoğlu played a key role in helping Inter Milan win the Italian Serie A title this season. Playing in the number six role, the 30 year old showcased his ability to control the flow of the game and displayed exquisite line breaking passing skills. He made a total of 40 appearances this season, and scored 15 goals to go along with his three assists.

While Çalhanoğlu has a completely different profile than Palhinha, it is easy to see why Bayern Munich would have interest in signing him. It is highly unlikely, though, that Inter Milan would be willing to sell him this summer unless they receive a big fee. And the midfielder has three years left on his current contract.

Hakan Çalhanoğlu also has plenty of Bundesliga experience under his belt, as he began his career in Germany. He was born in Germany and played for the likes of Karlsruher SC, Hamburger SV and Bayer Leverkusen, making a total of 111 appearances in the Bundesliga before his move to Italy in 2017.