turkish-football.com

Galatasaray are preparing a concrete move for Tottenham Hotspur forward Mathys Tel as the Turkish champions step up efforts to strengthen their attack before the close of the transfer window, sources have told Turkish-Football.

Galatasaray management are currently evaluating the total financial terms required to sign the 21-year-old French attacker and are expected to formalize their interest in the coming days.

Key Details of the Transfer Pursuit

Okan Buruk’s Request: Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk is a strong admirer of Tel’s tactical flexibility. The French youth international’s ability to operate both as a central striker and across the flanks makes him an ideal profile for Buruk’s fluid attacking setup.

Concrete Steps Planned: Club officials are reviewing the deal structure—assessing salary requirements and potential transfer terms—before making an official approach to Tottenham.

Rebuilding the Frontline: With Galatasaray seeking top-tier additions to bolster their Trendyol Süper Lig defense and European campaign, Tel has re-emerged near the top of the Yellow-and-Reds’ shortlist.

Competition and Potential Structure

The former Bayern Munich forward remains highly regarded across Europe, with interest also reported from several Bundesliga clubs.

While Tottenham invested significantly in securing Tel’s permanent signing, Galatasaray are weighing whether an initial loan offer with a buy option or a structured proposal can unlock negotiations before the summer deadline.

Tottenham Hotspur have stepped up their pursuit of Galatasaray winger Barış Alper Yılmaz, sources have told Turkish-Football the North London club have contacted the Lions regarding a summer move.

The 26-year-old wide attacker has emerged as a target for Spurs following an exceptional campaign for both club and country.

Capable of playing anywhere across the front line and at wing-back, Yılmaz’s versatility, explosive speed, and relentless work rate have attracted strong interest from top European clubs throughout the summer window.

Key Transfer Developments

Spurs officials are compiling a formal proposal to be worth in the region of €30m to €35m to test Galatasaray’s resolve.

The Turkish champions maintain a firm stance, holding out for a fee closer to €50m before considering a sale for one of their key assets.

Yılmaz is understood to be keen on a move to England, prioritizing a chance to play in the Premier League despite alternative interest from clubs across Europe and the Middle East.

Tactical Fit in North London

Yılmaz’s aggressive pressing style, physical power, and direct running make him an ideal fit for high-intensity Premier League football.

Coming off a career-best season where he registered 19 goal contributions (8 goals, 11 assists) in the Süper Lig, his arrival would provide crucial depth and dynamic attacking options across Spurs’ flanks.

Negotiations between Tottenham and Galatasaray are expected to intensify over the coming days as the Premier League club aims to finalize terms ahead of the new season.

Galatasaray have been put on high alert following reports that Tottenham Hotspur have added Victor Osimhen to their summer target list alongside existing interest from Manchester United, according to Turkish outlet Fanatik.

The Nigerian international forward, who remains the focal point of head coach Okan Buruk’s frontline for the upcoming campaign, continues to draw strong attention from Premier League clubs despite Galatasaray’s clear refusal to entertain a summer departure.

Tottenham and Manchester United Target Nigerian Forward

According to reporting from Fanatik referencing British sources, Tottenham Hotspur have expanded their offensive target shortlist to include the 27-year-old striker:

Spurs executives have begun gathering information on Osimhen’s contract terms and physical condition after closely tracking his influential performances in Istanbul.

Reports continue to link United with a potential proposal in the region of €100 million as they seek a proven focal point for their attack.

Spurs Also Monitoring Rafael Leão

Tottenham’s recruitment team is exploring multiple marquee options to reinforce their forward line. alongside Osimhen, Spurs are simultaneously evaluating AC Milan star Rafael Leão.

The North London side is intent on adding dynamic, high-impact attacking talents capable of operating across the front three during the current transfer window.

Galatasaray Maintain Firm Position

Despite escalating interest and the prospect of major transfer fees from Premier League suitors, Galatasaray’s board maintains an unyielding stance. With Osimhen locked into a long-term contract at Rams Park, the club considers him essential to their domestic title defense and European objectives, with no intention of sanctioning a transfer.

We use cookies and data to

Deliver and maintain Google services

Track outages and protect against spam, fraud, and abuse

Measure audience engagement and site statistics to understand how our services are used and enhance the quality of those services

If you choose to “Accept all,” we will also use cookies and data to

Develop and improve new services

Deliver and measure the effectiveness of ads

Show personalized content, depending on your settings

Show personalized ads, depending on your settings

If you choose to “Reject all,” we will not use cookies for these additional purposes.

Non-personalized content is influenced by things like the content you’re currently viewing, activity in your active Search session, and your location. Non-personalized ads are influenced by the content you’re currently viewing and your general location. Personalized content and ads can also include more relevant results, recommendations, and tailored ads based on past activity from this browser, like previous Google searches. We also use cookies and data to tailor the experience to be age-appropriate, if relevant.

Select “More options” to see additional information, including details about managing your privacy settings. You can also visit g.co/privacytools at any time.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly moved to the front of the queue to secure the signature of Trabzonspor’s breakout midfielder Christ Inao Oulai according to Hurriyet.

Following an extensive scouting campaign throughout the 2025/26 season, the North London club is now considered the frontrunner to land the 20-year-old Ivorian international.

A Breakout Campaign in Turkey

Oulai, who joined Trabzonspor from Ligue 2 side SC Bastia in August 2025 for approximately €5.5 million, has enjoyed a rapid ascent in European football. During the recently concluded season, he became a fixture in the “Black Sea Storm” midfield, contributing to their Turkish Cup triumph.

His statistical profile from the 2025/26 campaign highlights his growing influence:

Appearances: 31 across all competitions.

Goal Contributions: 2 goals and 4 assists.

Discipline: 9 yellow cards, reflecting his combative style in the middle of the park.

Performance Rating: An average FotMob rating of 7.35.

Spurs’ Midfield Rebuilding Under De Zerbi

The pursuit of Oulai comes as part of a significant squad overhaul under manager Roberto De Zerbi. Tottenham have already been active this summer, reportedly reaching agreements for Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi and Liverpool veteran Andy Robertson.

Addressing the midfield has become a priority as Yves Bissouma is expected to leave upon the expiration of his contract this month. Additionally, uncertainty surrounds the future of Joao Palhinha, and young talent Archie Gray may seek a loan move if he is not guaranteed regular minutes. While Oulai is viewed as a long-term prospect rather than an immediate starter, Spurs officials reportedly see him as a high-ceiling talent suited for the Premier League.

The €35 Million Battle

Despite Tottenham’s pole position, they face stiff competition from a “boatload” of European suitors. According to Turkish outlet Hurriyet, the following clubs remain interested:

Premier League: Chelsea, Brighton, and Bournemouth.

Europe: RB Leipzig and SL Benfica.

Trabzonspor are reportedly in a strong negotiating position, with the player under contract until June 2030. The Turkish side is expected to demand a fee in the region of €35 million to part with their prized asset this summer.

As the transfer window officially opens, it remains to be seen if Spurs will finalize a deal for the Ivorian prodigy before their domestic and continental rivals make their first official move.

Galatasaray star Roland Sallai, has become a high-priority target for Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest according to Fanatik.

This interest follows earlier reports linking him to Liverpool, Brentford, and Sunderland during the winter window.

Galatasaray’s Hardline Stance

Galatasaray management, led by President Dursun Özbek, is reportedly determined to keep Sallai as a cornerstone of their tactical system. Key highlights of the club’s current position include:

Transfer Veto: The club has rejected the idea of a summer sale, viewing Sallai as “indispensable” for their upcoming Champions League campaign.

“Astronomical” Requirements: Only an exceptional, record-breaking offer would force the “Cimbom” to reconsider their stance, as the player is currently under contract until June 2028.

System Value: Head coach Okan Buruk considers Sallai a vital asset due to his rare ability to cover multiple positions effectively.

The Premier League Pursuit

English interest in Sallai has peaked following his consistent performances in the Süper Lig and on the international stage.

Tottenham and Nottingham Forest: Both clubs have reportedly identified the Hungarian as a primary target to bolster their squads this summer.

Liverpool Links: Earlier this year, reports suggested Liverpool viewed Sallai as a potential versatile addition to provide cover for their defensive and wing options.

Brentford and Sunderland: Brentford is reportedly preparing a summer bid, while Sunderland monitored the player closely during the January window.

Seasonal Impact

Since joining from SC Freiburg for a fee of €6 million in late 2024, Sallai has firmly established himself in Istanbul. During the current 2025/26 campaign, he has recorded 28 appearances, contributing one goal and three assists. His versatility was on full display this season, primarily featuring at right-back while occasionally filling in on the wings and in advanced roles.

While the Premier League remains a primary ambition for many players, Galatasaray’s clear stance suggests that interested clubs will face a significant battle to lure the Hungarian star away from Vodafone Park this summer.

The managerial merry-go-round between North London and Istanbul has taken a sensational turn. Following reports that Tottenham Hotspur have placed Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk at the top of their shortlist to replace Roberto De Zerbi, the Turkish champions have reportedly responded with a strategic counter-offer involving Dutch superstar Xavi Simons.

According to a high-profile report from Fanatik, the “Lions” are unwilling to part with their tactical mastermind without a fight, leading to a complex web of negotiations that could redefine the 2026 summer transfer window.

Spurs’ Pursuit of the “Turkish Guardiola”

Tottenham’s interest in Okan Buruk is no longer a secret. After leading Galatasaray to back-to-back Süper Lig titles and a deep run in the Champions League, Buruk’s “High-Frequency” attacking philosophy has caught the eye of Spurs chairman Daniel Levy.

With Spurs currently struggling in the bottom half of the Premier League, the board sees Buruk as the man to restore the club’s “Identity” (Shakilah). However, Buruk—who is deeply settled in Istanbul—has expressed his Amanah (loyalty) to the Galatasaray project, making any potential move a difficult “sell” for the London side.

The “Xavi Simons” Counter-Move

In a surprising twist, Galatasaray management has reportedly used the interest in their coach to open a dialogue about Xavi Simons. The 22-year-old Dutch international, currently on the books at RB Leipzig (on loan from PSG), has been a long-term target for Tottenham.

Galatasaray’s board has reportedly suggested a “collaborative” transfer strategy:

The Proposal: If Tottenham successfully lures Okan Buruk to London, Galatasaray wants Spurs to facilitate or “clear the path” for the Turkish giants to secure Xavi Simons as his “parting gift” to the club.

The Vision: Galatasaray views Simons as the ultimate “Number 10” to lead their creative department alongside Victor Osimhen and Mohamed Salah (should the Liverpool deal materialize).

A Tactical Tug-of-War

For Galatasaray fans, the idea of losing Okan Buruk is a bitter pill to swallow. However, the prospect of landing a talent like Xavi Simons—valued at over €80 million—would be a monumental consolidation of their European ambitions.

Spurs, meanwhile, face a dilemma. While they desperately need a world-class coach like Buruk to steady the ship, losing out on a generational talent like Simons to a “Turkish rival” would be a significant blow to their long-term recruitment strategy.

Despite a turbulent Premier League campaign, Tottenham Hotspur are already laying the groundwork for a massive summer overhaul, with Turkish giants Galatasaray squarely in their sights.

Tottenham have identified a trio of stars from the Istanbul side to revitalize their squad: goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır, winger Barış Alper Yılmaz, and midfield maestro Gabriel Sara, sources have told Turkish-Football.

However, bringing the Brazilian playmaker back to English soil will not come cheap.

The €40 Million Standstill

Gabriel Sara, who joined Galatasaray from Norwich City in 2024 for roughly €23 million, has seen his valuation skyrocket following a standout season in the Süper Lig and a recent maiden call-up to the Brazil national team.

Galatasaray management has reportedly informed interested parties that they will not entertain any offers below €40 million (£34m).

While Tottenham have been scouting the 26-year-old extensively—most notably during Galatasaray’s Champions League clash against Liverpool at Anfield—they face stiff competition.

Brighton & Hove Albion are also preparing a formal bid, hoping to pair Sara with his former Süper Lig rival, Ferdi Kadıoğlu.

A Club in Transition

Tottenham’s interest in the Galatasaray trio comes at a time of immense internal pressure. Currently sitting 17th in the Premier League and narrowly hovering above the relegation zone, the club recently parted ways with manager Igor Tudor.

The pursuit of Uğurcan Çakır is particularly urgent, as first-choice keeper Guglielmo Vicario is heavily linked with a move to Inter Milan.

Meanwhile, the versatile Barış Alper Yılmaz is seen as a high-upside replacement for an aging frontline, having contributed 10 goals and 14 assists across all competitions this year.

Why Sara?

For Spurs, Sara represents the “missing link” in a midfield that has struggled for creativity. His statistics this season speak for themselves:

Süper Lig: 5 goals and 2 assists in 24 appearances.

Champions League: 1 goal and 1 assist, including a commanding performance against Juventus.

The “Homegrown” Edge: Having spent two years at Norwich City, Sara requires little time to adapt to the physical demands of English football.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly identified Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk as a primary candidate to take the reins at the North London club this summer. As Spurs navigate a turbulent Premier League campaign, Italian outlets suggest the 52-year-old is now a focal point of the club’s long-term coaching strategy.

The Race for the “Turkish Klopp”

According to TuttoMercatoWEB, Tottenham have added Buruk to a high-profile shortlist that also includes former Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi and Fulham’s Marco Silva. With Buruk’s current contract in Istanbul set to expire in June, Spurs are not the only suitors; Serie A’s Lazio and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad are also said to be monitoring the situation.

Buruk, a former Inter Milan and Galatasaray midfielder, has spent his entire coaching career in his homeland since 2013. However, his dominant domestic record has now made him one of Europe’s most “in-demand” free agents.

A Serial Winner’s Resume

Widely regarded as the premier manager in the Turkish Süper Lig, Buruk’s track record is nothing short of elite:

Galatasaray Dominance: Since taking over in 2022, he has led the Lions to three consecutive league titles and is currently on track for a historic fourth.

Historic Breakthrough: He famously guided Istanbul Basaksehir to their first-ever Süper Lig championship in the 2019-20 season.

Tactical Reputation: Known for his high-pressing, attacking style, Buruk is viewed by the Spurs board as a manager capable of restoring the “Tottenham DNA.”

The Crisis at White Hart Lane

The link to Buruk comes at a dire moment for Spurs. Following a bruising 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, Tottenham sit just one point above the relegation zone with only seven fixtures remaining.

The appointment of interim boss Igor Tudor has yet to yield a “bounce,” with the team picking up a solitary point from a possible 15. While Fabrizio Romano reports that Roberto De Zerbi is a person of interest, the Italian coach is reportedly waiting to see if Spurs can maintain their Premier League status before committing to the project.

The Summer Verdict

If Tottenham successfully avoid the drop, Buruk represents a cost-effective and ambitious appointment. Leaving Galatasaray after a trophy-laden four-year stint would mark his first foray into management outside of Türkiye—a move that could see him follow in the footsteps of other Mediterranean managers who have thrived in England.

A high-stakes “tug-of-war” in Turin has put North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur on high alert, as contract negotiations between Juventus and their breakout superstar Kenan Yıldız reportedly hit a financial stalemate.

According to reports from TuttoJuve, the 20-year-old Turkish international is seeking a salary exceeding £5 million per year to reflect his status as the club’s creative heartbeat. However, the Serie A giants are reportedly maintaining a strict fiscal policy and are hesitant to meet those demands, fearing it could disrupt their current wage structure.

The Standoff in Turin

While Yıldız is technically under contract until 2029, the impasse has created a window of opportunity for Premier League suitors. Juventus finds itself in a precarious position: while they recognize the forward’s immense value, they are reportedly “resigned to losing him” if a financial compromise cannot be reached.

With the player’s market value expected to peak in 2026, the Italian club may choose to cash in sooner rather than later to maximize their return on the “Turkish Diamond.”

Tactical Fits: X-Factor vs. Urgency

Both Mikel Arteta and Ange Postecoglou are said to be “unfazed” by the youngster’s wage requirements, viewing him as a transformative addition to their respective squads:

Arsenal: The Gunners reportedly see Yıldız as the ideal creative partner for Martin Ødegaard. Despite a star-studded squad, there is a growing sense that Arsenal lacks a consistent “X-factor” on the left flank. With Viktor Gyökeres still adjusting to life in London and Gabriel Martinelli struggling for consistency, Yıldız is viewed as the world-class talent needed to keep pace with Manchester City’s attacking depth.

Tottenham: For Spurs, currently languishing in 14th place after a difficult start to the season, Yıldız is seen as a priority signing to “add urgency” to an attack that has often looked stagnant. Tottenham’s hierarchy is expected to be aggressive in the January market to salvage their campaign.

A Growing Premier League Race

While Chelsea has also been credited with interest, the battle currently appears to be a direct head-to-head between the North London neighbors. For Arsenal, signing Yıldız could be the final piece of the puzzle in their quest for Premier League and Champions League silverware. For Tottenham, it would represent a massive statement of intent and a vital reinforcement for a squad in desperate need of a spark.

As the winter window approaches, the eyes of the football world will be on Turin to see if Juventus blinks—or if the Premier League’s financial might lures one of Europe’s most exciting talents to the Emirates or the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.