The Black Cats are one of several Premier League sides monitorying Galatasaray's Baris Alper Yilmaz
Baris Alper Yilmaz of Galatasaray
Sunderland have been linked with Baris Alper Yilmaz of Galatasaray
(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Sunderland target Baris Alper Yilmaz will cost “an astronomical fee” if he is to be prized away from Galatasaray.
The Turkish club are set to dig their heels in over the future of the wideman, according to reports.
The Black Cats have invested heavily ahead of their upcoming return to the Premier League, but are expected to spend further still as they aim to bolster their ranks over the coming weeks.
To that end, a new winger is understood to be high on Sunderland's list of priorities, and Yilmaz has already been touted as one potential option for Regis Le Bris’ side.
An update from Sabah Spor suggests the Black Cats have “knocked on the door” for both the 25-year-old and his Galatasaray team-mate Gabriel Sara, who were initially understood to be valued at £26m each.
In a separate update, continental publication HT Spor suggested that despite interest from the likes of West Ham, Aston Villa, and RB Leipzig, it is Sunderland who have been pushing hardest to sign the 28-cap Turkey international.
In a potential blow to the Premier League new boys, however, he may not be allowed to leave this summer and Yilmaz appears to be content where he is.
And Sunderland’s efforts could be hampered further still by claims that Galatasaray would only consider opening talks over a potential departure if a massive financial package was tabled first.
According to a new report from Sabah Spor, Galatasaray are playing “hardball” over Yilmaz’s future.
It is claimed that alongside Sunderland, the player is also attracting interest from the likes of RB Leipzig, Atalanta, and West Ham, but with his current club set for a run in the Champions League this season, there is a belief that his value could significantly increase in the near future. As such, it is stated that Galatasaray will “only sit at the negotiating table if an astronomical offer is made”.
While there are no concrete indications as to exactly how much Galatasaray would demand for their player, it is probably safe to assume that any asking price would be in excess of the £26 initially reported.
That sort of money will not put off Sunderland, though, as they have already splashed out in excess of £100m while signing eight players so far.
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