Manchester City may be gearing up to compete with Bayern Munich for Inter Milan’s talented midfielder, Hakan Calhanoglu. With Pep Guardiola eyeing a reliable backup for Rodri, who is currently out with a knee injury, City is reportedly exploring options, keeping a close watch on Calhanoglu.
According to CaughtOffside, Bayern Munich is preparing a potential bid for Calhanoglu next summer, but City is “waiting in the wings” and could join the competition. Previously, City showed interest in the versatile Inter star before this season, though a transfer didn’t materialize as he opted to stay in Serie A. Now, however, sources suggest Inter may be open to selling Calhanoglu, with a reported asking price of around €45 million (£37.4 million / $48.7 million).
This development aligns well with Bayern’s plans, especially as they look for stronger midfield options amid Joao Palhinha’s inconsistent form. Calhanoglu, now considering a fresh challenge, could be an ideal fit for both Bayern and City should they pursue him.
City’s focus on midfield reinforcement remains strong. Reports indicate that the club has “kept tabs on Calhanoglu” and may be ready to act if Bayern advances in their interest. The 30-year-old’s adaptability, able to play as a defensive midfielder, number six, or even a number ten, adds to his appeal. Since joining Inter from AC Milan on a free transfer in 2021, he’s amassed 146 appearances, with 30 goals and 26 assists.
Insiders also hint that City may target midfielders as soon as January to cover Rodri’s absence. Alongside Calhanoglu, they are reportedly interested in England prospect Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace. At just 20, Wharton is seen as a potential future replacement for Rodri, and City may move quickly if an opportunity arises. Additional players on their radar include Calhanoglu’s teammate Nicolo Barella, Atalanta’s Ederson, and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
Meanwhile, City is closely monitoring Sporting CP winger Geovany Quenda. The 17-year-old’s recent assist in Sporting’s 4-1 win over City caught the attention of several top clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea. Arsenal is currently the favorite, already making initial inquiries about a move to the Emirates. Quenda, however, has a hefty €100 million (£84 million / $104 million) release clause, and Sporting is unlikely to let him go until the end of the season.
Lastly, City is also eyeing Bayer Leverkusen’s rising star Florian Wirtz, possibly as a successor to Kevin de Bruyne, who may depart next summer. Bayern Munich also has serious interest in Wirtz, positioning them as City’s primary competition for his signature. Leverkusen, however, would likely demand at least £90 million (€107.2 million / $117 million) for any transfer discussions to proceed.
