The Turkey international is approaching the final year of his current agreement, which expires in June 2027, and his situation is attracting attention as clubs consider the possibility of signing him on a free transfer.
Romano has explained that Juventus previously made exploratory contact about the midfielder, although those discussions did not develop into a formal offer.
“It's not a surprise, and Hakan Çalhanoğlu has been a major figure in our football for many years. We're talking about one of the best midfielders in Serie A over recent seasons, and a player whose contract with Inter expires at the end of the season. So it's normal that people are beginning to talk about his future. During the last week, at the start of this international break, Juventus has also been mentioned,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.
The Italian journalist revealed that Juventus made enquiries in January and February 2026, when the club was operating under a different management structure.
“About a year ago, around January 2026, there were exploratory contacts and calls from Juventus. At the time, the club was under a different management, with CEO Comolli. Juventus called to understand what might happen between Çalhanoğlu and Inter at the end of the season.
“Inter and Çalhanoğlu then chose to continue together. Juventus never made an offer, either in writing to Inter or to the player. They definitely made calls to understand the situation, but it stopped there.”
Romano added that Fenerbahçe had represented a more serious threat during the summer, when one of the candidates in the club's presidential election had included Çalhanoğlu in his plans. That possibility eventually disappeared following the election of a different president, and the midfielder stayed at Inter without signing a new contract.
Juventus could again consider the opportunity, particularly because of their need for greater leadership and experience in midfield. Romano believes the player's qualities would make the link understandable, especially if he became available without a transfer fee.
However, Inter Milan remain in the strongest position for now.
“Çalhanoğlu gives absolute priority to Inter, at least at this moment. Inter have promised him and his agents, with whom they have a very good relationship, that they want to meet again and discuss a renewal.
“Inter are considering different formulas for players who are a little older, rather than 20, 22, 23 or 25. They are looking at ways of including bonuses to reach a certain level of salary while keeping the fixed wage competitive.”
Romano explained that the club wants to manage the contracts of players over 30 without allowing its wage structure to become unsustainable.
“Çalhanoğlu has his mind on Inter and gives priority to Inter. They will then have to find an economic agreement. Inter have promised him that they will sit down again, continue negotiations and try to find a solution.”
The financial details remain to be settled, but Inter have made clear that they want to keep the midfielder. Juventus' previous interest is established, although any fresh approach will need to be assessed against Çalhanoğlu's current preference to remain in Milan.