Yilmaz transfer claim denied as Galatasaray ‘satisfied’ with West Ham target
West Ham United are interested in Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz.
Yilmaz, 25, has been linked with a move away from the Turkish Champions, as they close in on a big-money deal for Victor Osimhen.
The winger has been linked with a move to the London Stadium, who need reinforcements after a disappointing season last time out.
Reports towards the end of the season suggested that West Ham lodged an initial bid for the Turkish international, and his manager has responded to those claims.
Yilmaz bid refuted by Galatasaray boss
Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has denied claims that the Turkish giants have received a bid for Yilmaz.
Speaking to the media at the club’s pre-season training camp in Austria, Buruk claimed that they are very happy with the winger.
Buruk said: “We haven’t received any offers regarding Baris Alper.
“We are very satisfied with him.”
It has been reported that Galatasaray would accept £29million to let Yilmaz leave Turkey.
According to Yakup Cinar, Nottingham Forest are preparing a £26m bid as they look to replace Anthony Elanga, while Inter Milan are also interested.
Yilmaz would bring a goal threat from wide positions for West Ham
The Turkish winger developed brilliantly last season, scoring more league goals in the last campaign than he had in his entire career before that.
West Ham need a new goal threat after Mohammed Kudus departed the Irons in a £55m deal to Tottenham Hotspur, and Yilmaz can provide that.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Super Lig | 32 | 12 | 3 |
| Turkiye Kupasi | 4 | 1 | 1 |
| UEFA Europa League | 9 | 1 | 2 |
The winger would need to improve his creativity should he move to England, having only registered 12 Super Lig assists over his entire career.
If Yilmaz can link up well with Jarrod Bowen down the flanks, their goal threats can help the Hammers rise up the table.
The Kudus cash is ready to use, and Buruk will likely just be driving up the cost.
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