News that Leeds United are in talks to sign Galatasaray attacker Kerem Akturkoglu came as a bit of a surprise earlier this week – and the Turkish side have since made him captain, following the links.
There is no doubting Akturkoglu’s ability. Already this season, he has had a hand in 16 goals, scoring the winner last night as Galatasaray beat Karagumruk 1-0. He tapped home a rebound to secure a victory.
Reports from Turkey state that Leeds and Lazio are in ‘frequent’ talks and have been over the last two weeks. It is believed he would cost £13m, while an unnamed club have made a bid for the playmaker.
Of course, the news comes as a surprise given the club he plays for. Leeds have not done any business with Galatasaray since two Leeds fans were stabbed ahead of the UEFA Cup semi-final first leg in 2000.
But, if reports are to be believed, Leeds are interested. It is even said that if Leeds fail to land the payer in January, then our interest will remain until the summer. Galatasaray have made a move to keep him.
Leeds target Kerem Akturkoglu given captain armband last night
Indeed, he was handed the captain’s armband for the first time last night. That is despite being in a side that also boasted experienced stars such as Hakim Ziyech, Dries Mertens, Mauro Icardi and others.
He would be a sensational signing but Galatasaray do not want to sell him and it easy to see why. They are pulling out all the stops to try and entice him to stay. The captain’s armband is a way of doing that.
It is one to watch ahead of the January window but it would be a surprise not only to see Leeds do a deal with Galatasaray, but for Akturkoglu to swap European football for England’s second division.
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