Key Takeaways:
- Inter have prioritised Aleksandar Stankovic’s return as their solution for replacing Hakan Calhanoglu, who is nearing a summer move
- The Nerazzurri possess a €23m buyback clause for Stankovic in 2026, increasing to €25m in 2027, but are planning to exercise it this year
- A potential transfer of Calhanoglu to Galatasaray would help finance Stankovic’s immediate return to the San Siro
Inter’s Strategy for the Midfield
Inter have set their sights on bringing back Aleksandar Stankovic as the main replacement option in the event of Hakan Calhanoglu’s expected departure this summer. The Turkish midfielder appears increasingly likely to leave the club once the transfer window opens.
L'Inter e un grosso punto interrogativo di nome Calhanoglu. Resta o va? Il futuro è Stankovic junior https://t.co/wpY8daGiDQ
— La Gazzetta dello Sport (@Gazzetta_it) March 10, 2026
Buyback Clause Details and Financial Planning
As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Nerazzurri possess a fixed option enabling them to re-sign the 20-year-old from Club Brugge for €23m during the 2026 window. This figure will rise to €25m if the clause is activated in 2027, prompting Inter to pursue the transfer as early as possible. Securing Stankovic’s return in the current window is believed to help ease the transition in midfield.
The finances for this move are anticipated to come from the potential sale of Calhanoglu to Galatasaray. Stankovic is no stranger to Inter, having previously developed under Cristian Chivu during a successful spell with the club’s Primavera setup.
Understanding the Replacement
With Calhanoglu’s future appearing increasingly linked to a move to Turkey, Inter have moved assertively to line up Stankovic – a midfielder familiar with both the club’s style and tactical expectations – ensuring minimal disruption for their midfield structure.
