Galatasaray supporters celebrate after the football club was crowned champion of Turkey's top division for a record 22nd time on May 19, 2019 in Istanbul. - Galatasaray sealed their 22nd Turkish league title with a dramatic 2-1 win over nearest challengers Istanbul Basaksehir in a capital-city derby marred by violence. (Photo by Yasin AKGUL / AFP) (Photo credit should read YASIN AKGUL/AFP/Getty Images)
Galatasaray have officially ignited their pursuit of Manchester City star Bernardo Silva, with reports from Turkey suggesting the “Lions” are preparing a massive financial package to lure the Portuguese international to the Süper Lig this summer.
According to Fotomaç, the Turkish champions have made Silva their “priority target” as they look to build a squad capable of deep progression in next season’s UEFA Champions League. The 31-year-old playmaker is widely expected to end his storied tenure at the Etihad Stadium, and Galatasaray are determined to beat Europe’s elite to his signature.
The Financial Package
Galatasaray are reportedly ready to test Manchester City’s resolve with an opening transfer bid of €30 million (£25.6m). Recognizing the competition for the veteran’s services, the Istanbul giants are also preparing a lucrative personal contract to entice the midfielder:
Salary: A proposed annual wage of €15 million (£12.8m).
Contract Length: A three-year deal that would keep Silva in Istanbul until 2029.
Strategic Reinforcements
The move for Silva is part of a broader “Galactic” recruitment strategy spearheaded by manager Okan Buruk and the club’s board. The board sees Silva as the ideal profile to provide leadership, technical brilliance, and winning experience to a dressing room that already features stars like Victor Osimhen.
Club officials are reportedly working through intermediary George Gardi—who played a pivotal role in bringing stars like Mauro Icardi and Lucas Torreira to the club—to facilitate talks with Silva’s representatives.