Since the January transfer window, Arsenal have been connected to Galatasaray’s promising winger, Barış Alper Yılmaz.
And now Sok Gazetesi is reporting that The Gunners are reportedly set to meet with the player’s agent to discuss a potential transfer.
The 24-year-old Turkish international has caught the attention of several top European teams, with his impressive performances at Euro 2024 further raising the bar.
The winger has been likened to Real Madrid legend Gareth Bale for his versatility and pace, which did help in Turkey’s journey to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals.
He is flexible enough to play both in the right/left-wing attack and even as a full-back, which makes him better for Arsenal as a squad player.
As such, Arsenal are willing to pay his price as he could bail out Bukayo Saka or Gabriel Martinelli in some games.
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What Arsenal are willing to pay
Galatasaray has set a minimum asking price of €30 million for the winger, a figure that Arsenal must evaluate carefully due to transfer Financial Fair Play rules.
However, for safety, Arsenal are lining up €20 million to try and convince the Turkish outfit to release one of their players.
The price will be a steal, considering Arsenal have now sold Emile Smith Row for €34 million, and many more sales are expected to go through including, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson.
Yılmaz’s journey
Yılmaz began his career at Rize İl Özel İdarespor in 2012 and played through the ranks, featuring for Ankara Demirspor and Ankara Keçiörengücü prior to joining Galatasaray in 2021.
His breakout season with Galatasaray was instrumental in their 2022-23 Süper Lig triumph.
Last season, he continued to shine, assisting seven times and scoring six goals in 37 Süper Lig appearances, which helped Galatasaray retain its title and attracted interest from various Premier League clubs.
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CS opinion
Despite his regular playing time in Turkey, this player might see less action at Arsenal, given we have prolific wingers like Saka and Martinelli, who are often make the first XI.
However, suppose Arsenal can sell him the project and outmanoeuvre other Premier League giants such as Tottenham, Manchester United, West Ham United, and Liverpool for his signature.
In that case, we could have him for next season. It would be a solid acquisition for the future if they can get the deal done, though he may be required to adjust to a lesser role than his current situation.
