On Tuesday, Galatasaray vice-president vice president Abdullah Kavukcu arrived in the UK as their search for a central midfielder continues.
The Super Lig leaders want to sign a No.6 before the transfer deadline, with a number of players linked, including Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarte.
Earlier this month the Uruguay international agreed personal terms with Galatasaray. However, since the managerial change at Old Trafford these rumours went away.
Ertem Şener has reported on developments as covered by Habersarikirmizi, who says Gala are set to hold talks with Manchester United.
The Turkish journalist believes Ugarte is again on the Istanbul giant’s agenda, along with Kobbie Mainoo.
A move for Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva has now been ruled out after Gala were linked with the Portugal international in recent weeks.
“Galatasaray will have a very serious transfer negotiation after the Manchester City match. They were going to sit at the table with Manchester United. Ugarte, could be Mainoo. I don’t think it will be Bruno Fernandes. I don’t think Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva either,” said Şener.
Manchester United situation changed
A move for the Manchester United pair is ambitious at this stage of the transfer window and is very unlikely to succeed.
Since the departure of Ruben Amorim, the situation with both players at Manchester United has changed.
Ugarte and Mainoo struggled to get starts under the Portuguese coach this season, but with Michael Carrick now installed as the new manager they can expect to get more opportunities. Mainoo has started the last two Premier League games under Carrick.
Galatasaray are also looking at other possibilities from the Premier League. Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Yves Bissouma is an option, and they are in transfer talks to sign him.
Turkey’s window closes on February 6th, so Galatasaray have time on their hands to eventually sign a central midfielder.