With the Trendyol Süper Lig championship race reaching a fever pitch, Turkish clubs are already setting their sights on strengthening their squads during the upcoming January transfer window. Leading contenders Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, Beşiktaş, and Trabzonspor are all poised for ambitious acquisitions. In a significant development, an Istanbul giant has reportedly made a move for Ruben Neves, signaling a potential blockbuster transfer.
Galatasaray’s Transfer Targets: Neves and Ugarte
Galatasaray is making headlines with its pursuit of two prominent midfielders. The club is reportedly preparing an offer for Ruben Neves, the Portuguese international currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. Neves, whose contract is set to expire in the summer, moved to Al Hilal from Premier League side Wolverhampton in the summer of 2023.
Additionally, Galatasaray has reportedly initiated contact with Manchester United regarding a loan deal for defensive midfielder Manuel Ugarte. Sources suggest that Ugarte is unhappy at United and is receptive to Galatasaray’s interest, potentially paving the way for a temporary move to Istanbul.
Fenerbahçe’s Strategic Moves: Sörloth and Musaba
Fenerbahçe is actively working on bolstering its attacking options. The club recently made initial contact with Alexander Sörloth, who is high on their striker wishlist. However, Sörloth’s reported salary demand of 12 million Euros has proven to be a hurdle for the management. Despite this, the Sarı-Lacivertliler are determined to sign the 30-year-old forward and are attempting to negotiate a lower salary.
The potential transfer of Sörloth is also contingent on the sale of Youssef En-Nesyri, as Fenerbahçe would need to pay a transfer fee to Atletico Madrid. The club’s management is awaiting En-Nesyri’s sale to finance Sörloth’s acquisition.
In another significant development, Fenerbahçe is reportedly on the verge of signing winger Anthony Musaba from Trendyol Süper Lig rival Samsunspor. According to information obtained by Fanatik, Fenerbahçe is prepared to pay Musaba’s 6 million Euro release clause and will offer the Dutch footballer a 3.5-year contract.
Beşiktaş and Trabzonspor’s Transfer Plans
Beşiktaş has taken the first step in addressing the future of Rafa Silva, whose departure is anticipated during the mid-season break. The Portuguese star’s manager has been summoned to Istanbul for discussions. These talks will cover all possibilities, from a potential transfer to contract termination, as the club seeks a resolution.
Trabzonspor is also looking to strengthen its squad, particularly in central defense. Nigerian star Nwaiu has reportedly caught the eye of Fatih Tekke, and the club has begun efforts to secure his services.
AC Milan’s Interest in Skriniar
While the focus is on Turkish clubs, there’s also news involving a former Super Lig target. According to Sky Italia, AC Milan, having secured Niclas Füllkrug on loan from West Ham United for their attack, is now aiming to resolve its defensive crisis. Milan Skriniar, who is familiar with Italian football from his time at Inter, is reportedly a strong candidate on Milan’s radar.
However, the report emphasizes that a transfer for Skriniar to Milan would be
