Reigning Turkish Super Lig champions Galatasaray have identified Super Eagles and Rangers star Emmanuel Fernandez as a potential transfer target as they ponder defensive reinforcements ahead of the upcoming season, Footynaija.com reports.
Galatasaray are expected to enter the summer market in search of a defender following the growing uncertainty surrounding the future of experienced Columbian center-back Davinson Sanchez.
The former Tottenham Hotspur defender is currently being linked with a move to Como, with the Serie A darkhorses also looking to strengthen their squad significantly ahead of a first ever campaign in the UEFA Champions League.
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With Sanchez seemingly edging closer to the exit, Galatasaray have widened their search for defensive reinforcements, with Fernandez emerging as a surprise name on the club’s shortlist despite earlier links with high-profile defenders such as Virgil van Dijk and Kim Min-jae.
The 24-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign with Rangers last season, featuring in 37 competitive matches and chipping in with five goals. A towering figure at the back, Fernandez is renowned for his dominance in aerial duels and his threat from set-piece situations.
Fernandez is also attracting attention from elsewhere in Europe, with Bundesliga heavyweights Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund also believed to be monitoring the Super Eagles defender. Rangers are reportedly prepared to demand a fee in the region of €20 million for his services.
Galatasaray could, however, hold a unique advantage in the race for Fernandez’s signature. According to reports in Turkey, Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen has spoken positively about the defender, providing an encouraging reference as the Turkish champions weigh up a move.
The Nigerian international is also said to be open to joining Okan Buruk’s side, a development that could further boost Galatasaray’s hopes of securing another Super Eagles star as they prepare to defend their Turkish Super Lig crown and compete in the UEFA Champions League next season.
