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Galatasaray has set its sights on Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva as the Istanbul club looks to fill the creative void left by Dries Mertens, according to reports.
The Portuguese star, 31, is set to become a free agent at the end of the season after declining to extend his contract with the English champions.
Galatasaray's transfer planners have reportedly accelerated their work for next season and have placed Silva at the top of their list of targets.
According to reports, Germany international Ilkay Gundogan, Silva's former Manchester City teammate, has played an intermediary role in the process, speaking with the player about Galatasaray and the club's project.
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Head coach Okan Buruk has rotated through several options in the No. 10 role this season, fielding Gundogan, Yunus Akgun, Gabriel Sara, and Yaser Asprilla in the position.
None has been able to replicate the impact of Mertens, who departed at the end of last season, and the club is expected to prioritize the position in the upcoming transfer window.
Silva's total cost, including a signing bonus, is reportedly close to 50 million euros over a three-year deal.
Galatasaray's board has not yet finalized the budget it is prepared to commit to the transfer.
The club recently agreed to pay Leroy Sane 36 million euros over three years.
The left-footed midfielder has made 43 appearances this season, contributing three goals and five assists. Versatile in deployment, Silva can operate as a No. 10, on the right wing, and in central midfield.
Galatasaray is not the only club pursuing Silva. According to reports, the player has received interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, Italy, Spain and the United States.
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