Fenerbahce's aggressive summer transfer plans remain in full swing, with the club continuing its push to bring Kerem Akturkoglu back to Turkey. The former Galatasaray winger, now at Benfica, is reportedly unsettled in Portugal and open to a return to the Super Lig.
Talks have intensified in recent days, with Fenerbahce reaching out to the Portuguese giants to enquire about the 26-year-old's situation. Club president Ali Koc, fully backing Jose Mourinho's project, is said to be making the national winger's signing a top priority.
Akturkoglu joined Benfica last summer for 12 million and has since registered 16 goals and 13 assists in 53 appearances, these are solid numbers, but adaptation issues have sparked rumours of a move. Timing, however, remains a key factor. Fenerbahce want a quick decision and could look elsewhere if no progress is made soon.
Sports Journalist and Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano highligthed via his official X handle that the Turkish giants wont lay all there eggs in the hope of signing the winger and will explore alternatives when neccessary.
He Tweeted on X:
Softfootball understands that Arsenal s Leandro Trossard has emerged as a backup option. The Belgian, who has one year left on his deal, may be allowed to leave the Premier League side, with Fenerbahce expected to open talks with the Gunners in the coming days.
In midfield, the club are working on a deal for Tottenham's Yves Bissouma. The Malian has entered the final year of his contract, and while Spurs initially demanded 20 million, Fenerbahce will push for a lower fee.
Meanwhile, the club is also in the frame for Mehdi Taremi. The Iranian striker, who recently joined Inter, is attracting interest from Fulham as well, setting up a competitive chase.
For Benfica, they have had some success in the transfer window. It was reported earlier that the Portuguese giants and Union Saint-Gilloise have reached an agreement for Benfica to have Croatian striker Franjo Ivanovic , who is reportedly valued at 25 million.
However, Fenerbahce's intent is clear: build a Mourinho-approved squad capable of winning the Super Lig title outright.