In a move that signals the start of an ambitious new chapter, Leroy Sané is on the verge of leaving Bayern Munich to join Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray. After several months of speculation, the German international looks set to trade the Bundesliga for the Süper Lig, embracing a fresh start in Istanbul.
Sané, 29, was reportedly a subject of serious interest from Arsenal, Al Hilal, and Fenerbahçe, but it’s Galatasaray who have emerged victorious in the race for his signature. While the formalities of the deal remain pending, both parties have reached a broad agreement on a lucrative three-year contract, marking one of the most significant transfers in Turkish football this year.
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Galatasaray’s Ambitious Project Lures Sané
Galatasaray’s proposal was not just about money; it was about vision. The Süper Lig champions presented Sané with a clear roadmap — dominance at home and a competitive push in the UEFA Champions League next season. The Istanbul-based club is expected to pay Sané around €10 million net annually, with potential bonuses pushing the overall earnings to €15 million per season.
With his market value pegged at €32 million, Sané will instantly become Galatasaray’s crown jewel. His arrival is not just about prestige but also about adding a potent weapon to their attacking arsenal. The club aims to leverage Sané’s European experience, especially with Champions League ambitions looming large on their agenda.
Arsenal Interest Fades as Turkish Move Beckons
Arsenal were one of the most prominent suitors in the race for Sané’s services. Senior officials at the London club even held talks with the German forward, as confirmed by The Athletic in their Transfer DealSheet on June 3. However, as the Premier League side weighed their attacking options for the summer, Sané preferred an immediate resolution regarding his future. Galatasaray provided that clarity with an offer that ticked all the boxes — competitive football, Champions League aspirations, and a starring role.
Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal also expressed concrete interest, offering a financial package likely dwarfing Galatasaray’s, but Sané opted for sporting ambition over monetary gain.
A Glittering Career Across Europe
Sané’s imminent move to Galatasaray marks the latest chapter in a career that has traversed Europe’s biggest stages. Having emerged from Schalke’s famed academy, Sané first made waves in Germany before joining Manchester City in 2016. Under Pep Guardiola, he developed into a dynamic winger, winning two Premier League titles and multiple domestic trophies.
In 2020, Sané returned to Germany with Bayern Munich in a deal worth €49 million, rising to €60 million with add-ons. Over five years in Bavaria, he collected four Bundesliga titles and added 61 goals and 55 assists in 220 appearances. Despite playing under a carousel of managers — Hansi Flick, Julian Nagelsmann, Thomas Tuchel, and most recently Vincent Kompany — Sané remained a key contributor.
His final season at Bayern saw him register 13 goals and six assists across 45 appearances, though only 25 of those were starts. The arrival of Kompany and Bayern’s changing tactical structure seemingly signaled that a fresh environment might benefit all parties.
Behind the Scenes: Contract Twist and Agent Change
Interestingly, Sané’s exit wasn’t always on the cards. Talks of a renewal with Bayern had advanced to a stage where an agreement appeared close. However, shortly before the season concluded, the winger made a surprising change in representation, switching from 11Wins to super-agent Pini Zahavi. The move effectively voided previous negotiations with Bayern.
Bayern’s proposed extension reportedly included a lower base salary of €10 million with bonuses up to €15 million — a package now mirrored by Galatasaray’s offer. Zahavi’s influence and Galatasaray’s compelling vision combined to reroute Sané’s trajectory from Bavaria to Istanbul.
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FAQs
What is the duration of Leroy Sané’s contract with Galatasaray?
Sané is set to sign a three-year deal, expected to earn up to €15 million per year, including bonuses.
Why did Leroy Sané reject Arsenal and Saudi offers?
Despite Arsenal’s interest and lucrative offers from Saudi clubs, Sané prioritized Galatasaray’s ambitious project and Champions League aspirations.
How many goals did Sané score for Bayern Munich?
Sané scored 61 goals and provided 55 assists in 220 appearances during his five-year stint at Bayern Munich.
When is the official announcement expected?
While nothing has been officially signed yet, the announcement is anticipated soon, following the finalization of minor details.
What impact will Sané have at Galatasaray?
As Galatasaray’s most valuable player, Sané will add elite-level experience and attacking creativity, key to their domestic and European ambitions.
