Yusuf Demir part of a five-pack – Galatasaray conclude busy transfer window

On deadline day 

Galatasaray have concluded the Turkish deadline day with five significant signings. The most prominent name is certainly Mauro Icardi (PSG). But Yusuf Demir, too, will be familiar to many football fans around the world. The 19-year-old Austrian national team player with Turkish roots arrives from Rapid Vienna and has signed a contract until 2026

Demir was once considered Austria’s brightest talent and even spent six months on loan at Barcelona during the 2021/22 season. The Catalans, however, were unwilling to pay his loan-to-buy clause, and since returning to Rapid Vienna, Demir has struggled for playing time. Rapid has been pushing for a transfer and will receive €6 million from Galatasaray for the attacking midfielder. Demir will be the most expensive signing for Galatasaray this summer. 

Icardi and Demir, however, are just two out of five deadline day arrivals at Galatasaray. The Turkish record champions also added Milot Rashica from Norwich City on loan. Norwich were relegated to the Championship last season. Rashica has scored one assist in four games in England’s second division this season. 

Galatasaray five-pack: Mata arrives – Ross signed from Aalborg 

Icardi, Demir, and Rashica are joined by Juan Mata and Mathias Ross. Mata joins the club after his contract at Manchester United expired this summer. The Spaniard played eight seasons for the Red Devils, and Galatasaray become just the fourth club of his career. Mata was one of the most valuable free agents still available.

While the other four players are supposed to strengthen the attack, Ross comes in to bolster the defense. The Danish defender arrives from Aalborg for €1.75 million. Altogether Galatasaray have spent €31.5 million on 14 new players this season while earning €12.5 million from sales. 

Homepage