Arsenal and Liverpool Battle for Galatasaray Star Shining in the Süper Lig
Arsenal and Liverpool are intensifying their pursuit of a rising Galatasaray star who is beginning to shine in Europe. His performances are attracting interest, and a potential transfer could command a multi-million-dollar fee.
The Süper Lig could become the setting for a new transfer battle between two English giants. Arsenal and Liverpool have reportedly sent representatives to scout a young Galatasaray player whose performances are beginning to attract interest across the European transfer market.
According to TEAMtalk, scouts from both clubs were present during the Turkish side’s 4-2 victory over Lille. The player’s performance reportedly strengthened the Premier League clubs’ interest as they continue to assess his potential.
Aleksey Batrakov, the Young Star Attracting Interest
The player on their radar is Aleksey Batrakov, a 21-year-old Russian attacking midfielder who joined Galatasaray from Lokomotiv Moscow. The attacker scored against Lille and continues to make a positive impression during his first months in Turkey.
Before his move, Batrakov recorded 34 goals and 23 assists in 84 appearances for Lokomotiv. Since joining Galatasaray, he has registered two goals and two assists in his first six starts, numbers that help explain why Arsenal and Liverpool are monitoring his progress.
A Transfer That Could Cost $67 Million
The main obstacle for interested clubs is the price. According to reports from TEAMtalk, the Russian midfielder’s contract includes a release clause worth around $67 million, applicable to clubs in England, Spain, Italy and Germany.
Galatasaray reportedly paid around $29 million to sign him, meaning the release clause would represent a significant increase on the club’s initial investment. The Turkish side has no apparent desire to part ways with a player it only recently signed and who has already delivered promising performances.
Arsenal and Liverpool Could Face Competition for Batrakov
The race would not be limited to the Gunners and the Reds. Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City have also reportedly tracked the young attacker, potentially widening the competition if any of them decide to turn their interest into a formal offer.
Batrakov is under contract with Galatasaray until 2031. That gives the Turkish club room to protect its investment and wait for an offer that meets its expectations.
For now, there is no confirmation that Arsenal or Liverpool have submitted official bids. However, the scouting interest in Europe and his promising start in Turkey have put Batrakov on the list of players to watch in upcoming transfer windows.
Aleksey Batrakov
Galatasaray SK
