The 26-year-old Arda Turan has impressed in his second season with Atletico Madrid, scoring 4 goals and providing 6 assists in 27 league appearances. Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is set to achieve a third-place finish for the first time since they were promoted in the 2001-02 season, ensuring an automatic place in the Champions League next season.
The tricky winger has helped the Spanish club triumph in two trophies this season, beating Chelsea 4-1 in the UEFA Super Cup, and overcoming fierce rivals Real Madrid for the first time in 14 years to clinch the Copa Del Rey.
Atletico Madrid’s successes this season means that they face a fight on their hands to keep hold of their star players. Their prized asset, Radamel Falcao, is continuously linked with a move away from the Spanish capital, with top European clubs interested in his services.
However, according to Dailymail, winger Turan is also a wanted man across Europe. Turkish champions Galatasaray want to bring the wideman back to his homeland as they prepare for a meaningful assault on the Champions League next season.
The Turkish club have been scouting for top players across Europe in recent windows, having already acquired superstars like Didier Drogba and Wesley Sneijder. However, a move for Turan may not be plausible according to president Unai Aysal.
Aysal believes that Chelsea also have the player on their radar and can utilize their financial muscle to easily lure Turan to London. He said, “Chelsea are involved with Arda and we won’t be able to match what they are offering.”
However, Atletico are not looking to sell one of their top performers, as Aysal revealed, “I met with the head of Atletico Madrid, he told me that there were three players the club definitely do not want to sell, one of them being Arda Turan.”
Chelsea, who are reportedly close to unveiling Jose Mourinho as their new manager, already have a star-studded midfield but want to further strengthen their ranks with the addition of Turan. They have money to burn, and could force Atletico to sell their star asset using their financial clout.