Galatasaray and Göztepe face squad changes and transfer interest

Galatasaray is navigating significant roster shifts ahead of the mid-season transfer window. Reports indicate that three Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs have expressed interest in German winger Leroy Sane, following his performance in a UEFA Champions League match against Stuttgart. Sane, who has seen reduced playing time under manager Okan Buruk, is reportedly being monitored by US-based teams looking to make official offers in January.

In recent league action, Galatasaray faced Amed Sportif Faaliyetler without star striker Victor Osimhen, who is sidelined due to a knee injury involving a free fragment. Additionally, captain Abdülkerim Bardakcı was unavailable due to a red card suspension. To compensate, manager Okan Buruk utilized tactical shifts, deploying Ismail Jakobs in defense and Barış Alper Yılmaz in an advanced role.

Göztepe is dealing with administrative hurdles regarding player Arda Okan Kurtulan. Although the player was reportedly contacted by Turkish national team officials, he was unable to join the squad for upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Belgium and France due to FIFA paperwork delays related to his previous eligibility with the Albania U19 team. Göztepe Honorary President Mehmet Sepil confirmed that while the delay is temporary, it has caused significant disappointment among supporters.