Inter Milan Target Richard Ríos as Çalhanoğlu Nears Galatasaray Move
With Hakan Çalhanoğlu likely leaving for Galatasaray, Inter considers Palmeiras’ Colombian midfielder as a top replacement
The European summer transfer window is heating up, and Inter Milan has now set its sights on one of South America’s rising stars: Richard Ríos, the dynamic midfielder from Palmeiras.
As Inter prepares for a potential midfield shake-up, Ríos has emerged as a prime candidate to replace Turkish international Hakan Çalhanoğlu, who is reportedly close to returning to his homeland with Galatasaray.
Çalhanoğlu’s Exit Now Likely — President Confirms Talks
After Inter’s elimination by Fluminense in the Club World Cup, club president Giuseppe Marotta confirmed the growing tension within the squad, particularly surrounding Çalhanoğlu’s future.
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“When a player says he wants to leave, the door is wide open,” said Marotta.
“Lautaro’s words were clear and yes, they referred to Çalhanoğlu.”
The Turkish playmaker hasn’t played since May, due to injury, and internal sources say negotiations with Galatasaray are already in progress. Inter is now preparing for life without him and Richard Ríos is high on the shortlist.
Who Is Richard Ríos?
A former futsal prodigy, Richard Ríos has developed into a complete midfielder at Palmeiras, combining technical finesse with high-intensity pressing. His versatility and defensive work rate have made him a standout under coach Abel Ferreira and now, European giants are taking notice.
- Age: 25
- Nationality: Colombia
- Club: Palmeiras
- Position: Central/Defensive Midfielder
- 2025 Stats: 34 matches, 4 goals, 2 assists
- Estimated Market Value: €16–20 million
Palmeiras Bracing for Offers
Palmeiras knows Ríos has suitors. In addition to Inter Milan, he has recently drawn interest from Atlético de Madrid, PSG, and Al-Hilal, with reports of a €50 million bid from Saudi Arabia already surfacing.
While Verdão is reluctant to sell, the club may be forced to consider proposals, especially if Ríos pushes for a move to Europe a goal he has publicly embraced as part of his career trajectory.
Inter’s Midfield Plan: Transition with Purpose
Inter’s interest in Ríos signals a shift. The club is not just replacing a player it’s evolving its midfield identity. With Çalhanoğlu’s departure imminent, Ríos would bring youth, intensity, and a South American edge to the Italian side’s engine room.
