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Istanbul club Besiktas is actively pursuing reinforcements in key positions as the winter transfer window nears its close and has identified two international players as top targets—Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Sassuolo winger Armand Lauriente, Turkish media reported.
According to reports, the Turkish side is closely monitoring FC Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen's recovery from back surgery, as the 33-year-old has yet to play this season.
Ter Stegen, who has begun individual training sessions, is said to be open to a move that would offer regular playing time in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he hopes to secure a spot in Germany’s national squad. Besiktas is aiming to capitalize on this by submitting a loan proposal for the second half of the season, with a salary-sharing arrangement being discussed between the two clubs.
Initial plans suggest that Besiktas is prepared to cover a portion of the goalkeeper’s estimated €6 million ($6.97 million) half-season wage, Turkish sports daily Fanatik reported. While early indications point to a challenging negotiation process, club officials intend to first persuade the player before opening formal talks with the Spanish side.
In a parallel effort to strengthen its offensive line, Besiktas has re-engaged with Sassuolo regarding a potential deal for French winger Armand Lauriente. The club had shown interest in the 25-year-old during the summer transfer window, and recent reports indicate that formal talks between the two clubs have now begun.
Lauriente, under contract with the Italian side until 2027, could be available under more flexible terms as Sassuolo is reportedly open to negotiating the player’s transfer fee. Lauriente has reportedly expressed a positive attitude toward joining the Istanbul-based team and is believed to be ready to accept the offer should it become official. Last season, the French winger scored 18 goals, while this season he has recorded two goals and one assist in 11 appearances.
Besiktas currently sits in sixth place in the Turkish Super Lig with 20 points after 12 matches.
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