Manchester United have established contact with the representatives of Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu, according to Sport Mediaset.
The 31-year-old has his sights on moving to Turkey, and Galatasaray are reportedly in advanced negotiations with the Nerazzurri regarding his transfer.
However, the Super Lig giants are only willing to pay €15 million (£13m) which is significantly less than the €40m (£34m) fee which Inter Milan are looking for.
Amidst this, it is reported that Manchester United have made contact with the agents of the Turkish star. There is also interest from Fulham and Saudi clubs.
Calhanoglu speculation does not make sense
The Turkey international has been a key player for Inter since his arrival on a free transfer from arch-rivals AC Milan four years ago.
Calhanoglu started his career as an attacking midfielder or left winger, but has transformed into a solid defensive midfielder at Inter.
Last season, he had a passing accuracy of 90 percent in Serie A with 53 percent duels won. He averaged 3.8 recoveries and 1.5 tackles.
He was also heavily involved in the final third with his attacking traits. Calhanoglu bagged 11 goals and eight assists from 47 outings.
Despite this, the speculation linking him with United does not make sense.
Calhanoglou turns 32 in February next year, and the Red Devils are unlikely to pay anywhere close to €40m (£34m) to secure his services.
The Turkish ace has played in Serie A for the last eight years. The Italian top flight is less intense and more tactical than the Premier League.
Hence, the £180,000 per week star may struggle to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Calhanoglu could secure a pay rise with a move to Galatasaray due to the lower taxes.
In our view, Inter are probably pushing the Turkish outfit to pay a higher sum by talking up interest from the Red Devils in the midfielder.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com, Capology.com & Sofascore.com