Galatasaray are making early moves for the January transfer window while maintaining their lead at the top of the Süper Lig. Manager Okan Buruk is planning to part ways with İlkay Gündoğan and Kaan Ayhan, whom he views as surplus to requirements.
The team finished the first five weeks of the season top with 13 points, winning four of their last five matches. Following this strong start, the board aims to both reinforce the squad and move on players who have found little playing time. The first two targets in this plan are Gündoğan and Ayhan.
İlkay Gündoğan, 35, sees his contract expire at the end of this season. The German midfielder has featured in just two matches this term, totalling 11 minutes, with no goal contributions. His market value is listed at €2 million. Turkish international defender Kaan Ayhan, 31, has managed only one minute of action across one appearance. Ayhan's contract runs until June 2028 and he is valued at around €1.5 million.
Okan Buruk stated, "Galatasaray'da çifte ayrılık! Okan Buruk biletlerini kesti," clarifying his intentions. The club's management is prepared to evaluate any incoming offers for both players in the coming period. This move aligns with the team's long-term planning and policy of rejuvenation.
Galatasaray's next match is away to Trabzonspor on Saturday, 19 September. Their opponents currently sit 9th in the table.
More detail at Fotomac
