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Galatasaray has formally approached Belgian side Club Brugge in a bid to sign Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika, but the two clubs remain far apart on valuation, Turkish media reports.
The Belgian side, which is also competing in this season’s UEFA Champions League, is reportedly unwilling to sell the player and appears to be obstructing the deal.
The Istanbul-based club is reportedly searching for a physically dominant and technically capable defensive midfielder who can handle the tempo of European competitions.
According to Turkish news outlet Hurriyet, the club officials submitted a formal offer for Nigerian international Raphael Onyedika, proposing a €3 million ($3.51 million) loan fee with a €17 million mandatory purchase clause at the end of the season. However, sources indicate that Club Brugge rejected the proposal, maintaining their valuation at €28 million.
Onyedika, 24, holds a €20 million valuation on Transfermarkt, has featured in 24 matches with 2 goals this season, and is under contract through 2027.
A similar obstacle has emerged in Galatasaray’s pursuit of Brazilian midfielder Ederson, currently under contract with Atalanta, another report by Nefes suggested. While the club has not disclosed an official bid, insiders suggest that the total transfer cost for both targets could exceed €40 million. Ederson, 26, has appeared in 18 matches this season and scored one goal, with his contract set to expire in the summer of 2027.
The escalating financial demands prompted Galatasaray’s management to halt both negotiations and explore alternative options, the report said.
As the window to finalize the squad ahead of the new season continues to tighten, Galatasaray has shifted its focus toward a short-term fix in midfield. One of the more realistic options now on the table is Manuel Ugarte, who recently signed with Manchester United but could be available for a loan.
The club is reportedly preparing to enter formal talks with the Premier League side in the coming days to explore the terms of a potential temporary deal. For Galatasaray, bringing in Ugarte on loan is seen as a practical way to address immediate needs in the center of the pitch, bolstering depth without committing to a major financial outlay.
Club officials are said to favor this approach, especially as other targets have become too costly or difficult to secure.
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