Galatasaray makes €25 million offer for Dibu Martínez after failing to sign Ederson and Donnarumma
Turkish giants move quickly for Aston Villa’s Argentine goalkeeper in final days of the transfer window.
Galatasaray have submitted a €25 million (R$158 million) bid to sign Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez from Aston Villa, according to journalist Yakup Cinar. With Manchester United dropping their interest in the 32-year-old, the Turkish club now see an opening to complete the deal before the European transfer deadline.
Third option on Galatasaray’s list
Martínez was not Galatasaray’s first target. The Istanbul side initially pursued Ederson, but the Brazilian joined fierce rivals Fenerbahçe, while Gianluigi Donnarumma sealed a move to Manchester City. That left Dibu as the prime alternative, with negotiations expected to accelerate on Monday (1 September).
An unexpected move for the World Cup winner
The possible switch to the Turkish Süper Lig is being viewed as surprising in England. Martínez had hoped for a move to a European giant, with his name even linked to Barcelona earlier this summer. However, off-field concerns and his fiery temperament reportedly discouraged some top clubs from advancing.
Villa already preparing for life without him
While awaiting Aston Villa’s response, Galatasaray are confident of reaching financial terms with the goalkeeper. Meanwhile, Villa have already reinforced their squad, sealing a loan deal with an obligation to buy for Harvey Elliott from Liverpool, valued at over €30 million (R$190M).
If completed, Martínez’s arrival would instantly make him one of the highest-profile signings in Turkish football this season, as Galatasaray aim to strengthen their squad for domestic and European challenges.
