Galatasaray has taken concrete steps to sign Göztepe's young talent Arda Okan Kurtulan as part of their squad strengthening efforts for the 2026-2027 season. According to a report by Hürriyet Spor on August 31, 2026, the Istanbul giants have made initial contact with Göztepe, and negotiations are expected to continue.
The Süper Lig leaders are active in the transfer market following their perfect start to the season. Having topped the table with 7 points from 3 games, scoring 9 and conceding 4, the club is looking to bolster its domestic player rotation. One of their targets is the 23-year-old Arda Okan Kurtulan. The player's market value is reported at 7 million Euros, while his club Göztepe is asking for a transfer fee of 8 million Euros. Kurtulan's contract with Göztepe runs until 2029.
What is Göztepe's asking price?
Göztepe has set a clear price for their young star Arda Okan Kurtulan. The club's management is demanding an 8 million Euro transfer fee for the player. This figure is slightly above the player's current market value of 7 million Euros. The transfer talks will revolve around this price. Hürriyet Spor also reported that Galatasaray stated it is continuing its transfer work and has also taken action for local rotation.
Kurtulan can play as a right-back as well as in central midfield. This versatility is a key feature that has attracted the attention of Galatasaray's technical staff. As can be seen on our squad page, the team has the objective of building a deep squad for this season. Especially with absences like the currently sidelined Rafael Leão, having ready backups becomes important. Therefore, signing a young and talented Turkish player is considered a strategic move.
Where would Arda Okan Kurtulan fit at Galatasaray?
Arda Okan Kurtulan can provide defensive security on the right flank, while also impressing with his ball distribution and pressing ability in midfield. Galatasaray's technical team plans to integrate the player's flexibility into the team's playing system. The team has achieved WWD (Win, Win, Draw) form in its last three league games and sits at the top of the table, as can be followed on our standings page.
Maintaining this successful performance requires a solid backup squad. Kurtulan's potential transfer would increase options both at right-back and in midfield. Such rotations are vital, especially during congested fixture schedules and European cup campaigns. Galatasaray's next league match is a home game against 5th-placed Rizespor on December 6, 2026. Any contribution to squad depth before this match is valuable.
How will the transfer process proceed?
The talks are still at an early stage. The managements of Galatasaray and Göztepe will negotiate over the 8 million Euro demand. Whether the parties can find a middle ground will become clear in the coming days. With the transfer window closing soon, it is possible for both clubs to act under time pressure.
Galatasaray's transfer budget and the place of this move in their squad planning will be decisive. Considering the team started the season with 9 goals scored and 4 conceded for a +5 goal difference, the main aim is to add quality without disrupting the defensive balance. The player's contract until 2029 increases Göztepe's bargaining power. You can follow the process and examine team and player data on our stats page. In conclusion, this initiative by Galatasaray for the young Turkish talent could be an important step for the competition throughout the season.
