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Fenerbahce plans major squad reinforcements: Benzema, Goretzka, Kim Min-Jae in focus

Karim Benzema in action for Al-Ittihad during the friendly match against Fenerbahce at Estadio Municipal de Portimao, Portugal, July 23, 2025. (AA Photo)
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Karim Benzema in action for Al-Ittihad during the friendly match against Fenerbahce at Estadio Municipal de Portimao, Portugal, July 23, 2025. (AA Photo)
October 14, 2025 11:06 AM GMT+03:00

Fenerbahce is reportedly preparing for a significant squad overhaul during the upcoming mid-season transfer window, following a slow start to the 2025–26 Super Lig campaign and ongoing offensive struggles.

Benzema leads list

According to Turkish sports media outlet Fotomac, French striker Karim Benzema, currently at Al-Ittihad, is Fenerbahce’s top target.

Benzema, who signed with Al-Ittihad in 2023 on a reported 50 million euro annual contract, is reportedly open to returning to European football to conclude the final stages of his career.

Benzema is reportedly interested in returning to Europe, and the club plans to contact his representatives.

If successful, the transfer could lead to a departure for Jhon Duran, who has struggled with injuries and form.

Kim Min-Jae posing with the Fenerbahce flag during his time at the club. Istanbul, Türkiye, August 23, 2021. (AA Photo)
Kim Min-Jae posing with the Fenerbahce flag during his time at the club. Istanbul, Türkiye, August 23, 2021. (AA Photo)

Other reinforcements

According to Türkiye daily, head coach Domenico Tedesco has identified key areas in the squad that require reinforcement.

He reportedly stated that Archie Brown is not suitable for a back-four system, making the left-back position a priority, with Ferdi Kadioglu emerging as the leading candidate.

In central defense, Kim Min-Jae, who previously played for Fenerbahce, is reportedly the top target to replace Oosterwolde, whose performances have been inconsistent.

Sources indicate that Kim is open to a return, and Tedesco is reportedly confident he can also convince him.

For the central midfield, Tedesco has submitted a list to management with Leon Goretzka at the top, aiming to strengthen both the defensive and offensive phases of play.

The coach is also reportedly seeking a striker capable of playing with his back to the goal.

Fenerbahce head coach Domenico Tedesco spoke following the match against Samsunspor at Yeni 19 Mayıs Stadium, Samsun, Türkiye, October 5, 2025. (AA Photo)
Fenerbahce head coach Domenico Tedesco spoke following the match against Samsunspor at Yeni 19 Mayıs Stadium, Samsun, Türkiye, October 5, 2025. (AA Photo)

Tedesco’s plan for improvement

Tedesco’s report highlights several weaknesses in the squad, particularly in attack.

For instance, striker En-Nesyri has converted only 4 of 22 scoring chances in the first eight league matches.

The coach also emphasized that carefully planned transfers are necessary to implement his tactical vision effectively.

In addition to transfers, Tedesco has stressed the importance of targeted training programs to improve the team’s physical and mental readiness.

October 14, 2025 11:41 AM GMT+03:00
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