Kerem Akturkoglu is the subject of talks between Leeds United and Galatasaray with Daniel Farke keen to bring him to Elland Road – but his comments this week come as a big blow in our pursuit.
News emerged this week that Leeds were in ‘frequent’ talks to sign the 25-year-old, with Akturkoglu on fire this season – having a hand in 16 goals in his 28 games this term. Two goals vs Manchester United.
Rated at £13m, the 26-time Turkey star scored the winner on Wednesday night in a 1-0 win over Fatih Karagumruk. Galatasaray want to keep Akturkoglu, who is also said to be interesting Serie A side Lazio.
Captain on Wednesday night despite the presence of Hakim Ziyech and Mauro Icardi, Akturkoglu spoke to his club’s site after scoring his eighth of 23-24 last night. He spoke about his side’s exit in Europe.
Galatasaray finished third in their Champions League group, ahead of Manchester United. It sees them go into the Europa League after Christmas, taking on Sparta Prague. The first leg is on February 15.
Kerem Akturkoglu comments last night a blow for Leeds United
Akturkoglu shared his desire to be successful in the Europa League, after January: “The demoralisation caused by our elimination from the Champions League is reflected on the field today. We had dreams.
“We left that side behind and from now on our Europa League adventure will begin. We aim to be much more successful there, to go much further,” Akturkoglu added, in post-match comments on Wednesday.
Clearly, Akturkoglu is focused on playing for his current side and is not thinking about a January exit. That can of course change, but if Leeds agreed a fee – they may find that Akturkoglu just wants to stay.
Maybe then, Leeds should forget already about a January pursuit given Akturkoglu’s keenness to stay and help his side win the Europa League – and reignite interest in the summer. He may be more tempted.
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