Image source: sempreinter.com
Inter Milan could reportedly freeze talks for the sale of Davide Frattesi after losing Hakan Calhanoglu to injury, with the Turkish midfielder’s absence making the club reconsider the Italian’s potential exit despite his fall from favour under manager Cristian Chivu this season.
Calhanoglu Calf Injury Forces Inter Milan to Reconsider Frattesi Sale Plans
According to Corriere dello Sport via FCInterNews, Calhanoglu suffered a calf injury in the late stages of Inter’s home draw against Napoli on Sunday and could be sidelined until mid-February. The 31-year-old Turkish international is expected to return for Inter’s clash against Juventus on February 15, creating a significant gap in the club’s midfield options during a crucial period of the season.
Despite falling out of favor with Chivu, the former Sassuolo star could end up staying at San Siro until the summer as his absence would deplete the manager’s midfield resources. With Galatasaray reluctant to match Inter’s 35 million euro asking price for Frattesi, negotiations between the clubs have hit a standstill, making the potential retention more feasible for the Italian champions.
Calhanoglu’s injury will inevitably affect Frattesi’s status at the club, with Inter potentially taking the 26-year-old Italian midfielder off the transfer market entirely. Beppe Marotta has no intention of selling Frattesi to direct Scudetto competitors, further limiting the potential destinations for the player during the January transfer window.
The development represents a significant shift in Inter’s transfer strategy, as the club had been open to Frattesi’s departure following his reduced role under Chivu this campaign. However, the unexpected injury to their key Turkish playmaker has forced a reassessment of their midfield depth, potentially postponing any sale until the summer transfer window when Calhanoglu is expected to be fully recovered.
