According to reports, Kerem Akturkoglu from Galatasaray is available for a £12.9 million signing fee to both Leeds United and Lazio.
Although Galatasaray is hesitant to sell, it was just this week that reports said Leeds had been in “frequent talks” with their rivals regarding a deal for the 25-year-old.
Given the past between the two clubs, it would be extremely surprising if Leeds and Galatasaray could agree on a trade, even though Akturkoglu is undoubtedly a talented player.
However, Aksam claims that Leeds is prepared to pay the asking amount for Akturkoglu, who has scored seven goals and provided eight assists across all competitions so far this season. In the Champions League, three of the goals were scored.
A significant obstacle to any agreement, though, is that Lazio of Serie A would have to be prepared to pay Akturkoglu’s asking price as well. It is difficult to imagine him not selecting there, especially since they are participating in the Champions League knockout stages.
Though a competent player, Leeds doesn’t need Akturkoglu
In the Champions League this season, Akturkoglu scored goals against Manchester United both at home and away, indicating that he is likely too talented for this division.
Though Akturkoglu can play as a number 10 or a second striker, his primary position is left wing, which is the final place Leeds needs to reinforce in January.
After ten goals and six assists this season, Crysencio Summerville is unquestionably first choice and won’t be moving from it anytime soon.
Although Wilfried Gnonto has spent most of the football season on the right side, his preferred position is still there. Selling him might make a move possible.
Then there’s Jaidon Anthony, whose minutes have been extremely scarce lately. Should Leeds opt to add a new attacker, it must be a legitimate number 10 rather than someone who can fill in there.
