Galatasaray is preparing a major push to sign veteran Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger in January, capitalizing on his expiring contract to bolster their defense for the second half of the season.
Turkish club Galatasaray is reportedly preparing a “serious push” to sign Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger during the January transfer window, according to AS.
The German centre-back’s contract is set to expire at the end of the current season, and the lack of progress on a renewal has intensified speculation around his future at the Bernabéu.
This situation has opened the door for interested clubs to test the waters.
Galatasaray views the 32-year-old Rüdiger as the “ideal leader” to significantly reinforce their defensive line midway through the season, an ambition reportedly shared by manager Okan Buruk.
The club’s strategy is to leverage Rüdiger’s status as a potential free agent by first entering direct negotiations with the player to present an attractive project.
Should initial talks be successful, Galatasaray plans to submit a formal proposal to Real Madrid, hoping to secure his transfer.
The Turkish giants believe that pairing Rüdiger with Davinson Sanchez would drastically boost their competitiveness in the Champions League and strengthen their overall European objectives.