Galatasaray’s striker hunt has a new name in focus: 21-year-old Lucas Stassin, who plays in France’s Ligue 2. The Süper Lig leaders are pushing hard to add firepower to their attack before the new season kicks off.

Who’s the target?

Lucas Stassin emerged as Galatasaray’s top target after netting 18 goals in Ligue 2 last term. His eligibility under the +4 foreign-player rule makes him a perfect fit for the Turkish side’s transfer plans. The club has been in close talks with St. Etienne over the move.

Jhon Duran’s transfer, once on the radar, now looks off the table. Duran’s option has been shelved as Galatasaray turns its attention elsewhere. Meanwhile, the club has accelerated talks with multiple players in recent days.

Ponomarenko still in play

Another name in the mix is Matviy Ponomarenko. The 20-year-old Dynamo Kiev striker is being eyed on a loan deal with a future buy option. Manager Okan Buruk has given the nod, and negotiations are ongoing despite the deal being trickier than Stassin’s.

Why these signings matter

Galatasaray tops the Süper Lig with 77 goals scored and a +47 goal difference after conceding just 30. Leading Fenerbahçe by three points, the team has struggled lately, losing two of its last five games-including a 1-0 defeat to Kasımpaşa on May 17, 2026.

With the August 8, 2026 home clash against Villarreal looming, the club is racing to finalize its squad. Every move now shapes Galatasaray’s push for domestic and European glory this season.