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Back in the summer of 2017, Calhanoglu was one of the 11 players recruited by AC Milan. He was bought for €21.30 million from Bayer Leverkusen. Since then, he had a great impact on the squad and was a key player in Gennaro Gattuso’s squad. However, the Turk has been struggling recently, which could lead to his departure as early as January.
Calhanoglu is a known name around the world, mostly for his free kick ability. Gennaro Gattuso found him very useful last season, though the change in players and tactics has negatively affected the player. The switch from a 4-3-3 to a 4-4-2 has eliminated Calhanoglu’s main position. He likes to play on the wing and keep attacking, something that the new formation doesn’t include.
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This season, Calhanoglu has scored no goals but has four assists in all competitions. Last season was a great one for the attacker, he scored six league goals and has eight assists. He has proved to be an important player in the squad.
The arrival of Lucas Paqueta is also playing a part in his departure. Milan want to fully invest in the young Brazilian they paid €35 million for. The Flamengo man is expected to be a regular starter, leaving no space for Calhanoglu.
According to Tutto Sport, multiple German clubs are interested in signing the former Hamburg man, including Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig. His departure would mean good and bad things for the Rossoneri.
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Calhanoglu has given everything for the club and is attached to the team, seeing him leave so soon would be unfair to the player. He is a player of good quality and can make an impact in the years to come. The Turkish-man links up with Suso and Higuain, forming a great attack, he could continue to do so if he can adapt to the change in formation.
Although he is a great player, his departure can help Milan. It will surely help them with funds as they struggle with Financial Fair Play regulations. He will also free space in the squad, especially for Lucas Paqueta who needs as much playing time as possible to properly develop.
At the end of the day, the decision is in Leonardo’s hands. Will he sacrifice a talented player who is still only 24 years-old, or will he keep him to build a career at AC Milan